In power-supply design and signal conditioning, which component is specifically used to shunt (divert) the unwanted ac ripple component away from the load so that the load sees a smoother dc output?

Introduction / Context:
After rectification, the output of a power supply is not pure dc; it contains a residual alternating component known as ripple. Practical supplies therefore include a stage that attenuates this ripple so the load receives a steadier voltage. Knowing which block performs this job is fundamental to power electronics and analog design.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• A rectifier has already converted ac to a pulsating dc waveform.
• The goal is to reduce the ac ripple component at the load.
• We are comparing common supply blocks: rectifier, filter, regulator, and transformer.

Concept / Approach:
A filter (commonly a capacitor-input, LC, or RC network) provides a low-impedance path for ac ripple to ground while presenting a high impedance to dc. As a result, dc appears across the load, but the ac variations are bypassed around it. The regulator that often follows improves dc accuracy and rejects remaining ripple but is not the primary element that shunts ac to ground.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the unwanted component: ac ripple superimposed on dc.Recall the filter’s function: provide frequency-selective attenuation of ripple (high-frequency) while passing dc (0 Hz).Realize that a reservoir/bypass capacitor conducts ripple currents, diverting them away from the load node.Therefore, the component that shunts the ac component away from the load is the filter.

Verification / Alternative check:
Measure ripple before and after a capacitor-input filter. An oscilloscope shows a significant reduction in peak-to-peak ripple at the load node, confirming the filter’s shunting action.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Transformer: adjusts voltage and provides isolation; it does not remove ripple.

Rectifier: creates pulsating dc but does not smooth it.

Regulator: stabilizes dc level and can improve ripple, but the core shunting of ac is the filter’s role.

Snubber network: suppresses transients across switches, not supply ripple.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming the regulator alone makes perfectly smooth dc. Without adequate filtering, regulator dropout, dissipation, and ripple rejection limits can be exceeded.

Final Answer:
filter