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How to Build an Electromagnetic Rectifier

There are two types of electricity: alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC). In AC signals, current flows in both positive and negative directions, which allows the operation of devices such as motors. DC signals have current that flows only in one direction, is used to power devices such as LEDs. A diode is a component that allows electrical current to pass though it in only one direction (signified by the arrow on the component). A simple circuit consisting of four diodes can be used to convert AC signals to DC signals; this circuit is known as a rectifier.

Things You'll Need

4 diodes
Vari-board
wire
AC power supply

Instructions

- 1
  Arrange the four diodes on the vari-board so that they are connected, forming a square. Rotate the diodes on the top and bottom of the square so their arrow labels point to the left (current can flow to the left). Rotate the diodes on the left and right sides so their arrow labels point up (current can flow up).
- 2
  Connect a piece of wire between the positive terminal of the AC power supply and the bottom-left terminal of the diode square. Connect another piece of wire between the negative terminal of the AC power supply and the top-right terminal of the diode square.
- 3
  Connect a wire between the top-left terminal of the diode square and the positive terminal of the DC device. Connect another piece of wire between the bottom-right terminal of the diode square and the negative terminal of the DC device. Switch on the AC power supply. As current is passed through the series of diodes, it will be rectified and create a DC output, allowing a device such as a lamp to be powered.

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