Question

Can we use a transistor as a rectifier?

Answer 1

Hint: Firstly, let’s understand what a transistor nada rectifier is. Transistor refers to a semiconductor electronic device which is used to amplify or switch electronic signals and electronic power. Whereas, rectifiers refers to those electronic devices which convert the A.C. signal to D.C. signal.

Complete answer:
Let us come to the fact whether we can use a transistor as a rectifier or not.Yes, we can use a transistor as a rectifier but it will work in low current when we connect the base-collector region or the base-emitter region of the transistor.Using the base for collector junction when the reverse voltage is above $5V$. This is a common way to build circuits with two transistors.

By using a diode we can also perform such operations. By using the junction base-emitter as a diode. But as a rectifier, for example a power rectifier, it has serious limitations with respect to the maximum direct current, the nominal transient current, the peak inverse voltage, and so on.For n-p-n types of semiconductors, we just connect the base to the collector.

We can also place a resistor in the foot of the base to limit the current. It depends on the voltage value and the current available at the source. Hence, we can get the full power of the transistor and the full reverse voltage. A common silicon transistor whose base is connected to the collector is called a super diode having the same characteristics as a diode.

Note:There are various circuits in which the transistors are used as diodes. There are a lot of specialized diodes which operate at any current, frequency and voltage and react better as rectifiers than transistors designed for different purposes. AS a synchronous switch the transistor works very well as a rectifier.