Which device is used to regulate current flow in one direction?

Which device is used to regulate current flow in one direction?

• A. Transistor
• B. Diode
• C. Capacitor
• D. Inductor

Answer: (B)

A diode is specifically designed to allow current to flow in one direction while blocking it in the opposite direction. This property makes diodes essential components in various electronic circuits, especially in applications like rectification, where alternating current (AC) is converted to direct current (DC). When voltage is applied in the forward direction (anode to cathode), the diode conducts electricity, enabling the current to flow. Conversely, if the voltage is applied in reverse (cathode to anode), the diode remains non-conductive, effectively creating a one-way street for electrical current. This characteristic of controlling directionality is fundamental in circuits that require current regulation, protecting sensitive components from damage caused by reverse voltage. The other options serve different purposes; for instance, transistors are used for switching and amplification, capacitors store energy in an electric field, and inductors store energy in a magnetic field, none of which are designed specifically to regulate current flow direction like a diode does.

A diode is specifically designed to allow current to flow in one direction while blocking it in the opposite direction. This property makes diodes essential components in various electronic circuits, especially in applications like rectification, where alternating current (AC) is converted to direct current (DC).

When voltage is applied in the forward direction (anode to cathode), the diode conducts electricity, enabling the current to flow. Conversely, if the voltage is applied in reverse (cathode to anode), the diode remains non-conductive, effectively creating a one-way street for electrical current. This characteristic of controlling directionality is fundamental in circuits that require current regulation, protecting sensitive components from damage caused by reverse voltage.

The other options serve different purposes; for instance, transistors are used for switching and amplification, capacitors store energy in an electric field, and inductors store energy in a magnetic field, none of which are designed specifically to regulate current flow direction like a diode does.