A2 · Topic 21

The current that reverses.

Sinusoidal alternating current, the peak and root-mean-square values that let us compare it with d.c., and the diode circuits that turn a.c. into the steady d.c. that runs electronics. Play the two simulations below. The gamified lessons and the topic Paper 4 practice are live below too.

Simulations · live
Interactive · live Peak, r.m.s. and power A current trace with peak and r.m.s. marked, above a power trace whose mean is half the peak. Loads only when you launch, so the page stays fast.
Interactive · live Rectification and smoothing Half-wave and full-wave rectification, with a smoothing capacitor you can switch in to reduce the ripple. Loads only when you launch, so the page stays fast.
Paper 4 practice · live
Structured questions · with worked solutions Ten original Paper 4 style questions A full topic set across the characteristics of a.c. and rectification, linking the lessons within the topic with full worked solutions. Open practice →
Lessons · live
Characteristics of a.c. Rectification and smoothing
Concept map
Open the concept map