JEE Physics · Medium

Semiconductors: Diode Clipper MCQ

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Diode ClipperMediumQuestion 20268

Question

A positive clipper circuit clips the positive half of an input AC signal by:
  1. A
    Using a capacitor
  2. B
    Placing a forward-biased diode in parallel with the output to clamp positive voltages near zero
    Correct
  3. C
    Using a transformer
  4. D
    Using an inductor

Correct answer

Placing a forward-biased diode in parallel with the output to clamp positive voltages near zero

Explanation

Positive clipper: diode in parallel with load, anode grounded. When V_in goes positive, diode conducts → output ≈ V_forward ≈ 0.7 V (Si). Negative half cycle passes unchanged. Used in signal processing to remove one polarity of a waveform.