Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: RF = (FF^2 - 1)^(1/2)
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Ripple factor and form factor are standard quality measures for rectifier outputs. Form factor quantifies the ratio of RMS value to average value, while ripple factor quantifies the AC component relative to the DC component in a rectified waveform.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
By definition: FF = V_rms / V_dc and RF = V_ac,rms / V_dc. Also, V_rms^2 = V_dc^2 + V_ac,rms^2. Rearranging these gives the direct relationship between RF and FF.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Plug common rectifier values (e.g., half-wave, full-wave) to confirm known RF values are recovered from the corresponding FF values.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Linear relationships RF = FF − 1 or RF = FF^2 − 1 ignore the Pythagorean relationship from RMS summation. The square-root of (FF − 1) is dimensionally inconsistent relative to the derivation.
Common Pitfalls:
Confusing total RMS with ripple RMS; forgetting that RMS components add in power (square) not linearly.
Final Answer:
RF = (FF^2 − 1)^(1/2)
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