Access free live classes and tests on the app
Download
+
Unacademy
  • Goals
    • AFCAT
    • AP EAMCET
    • Bank Exam
    • BPSC
    • CA Foundation
    • CAPF
    • CAT
    • CBSE Class 11
    • CBSE Class 12
    • CDS
    • CLAT
    • CSIR UGC
    • GATE
    • IIT JAM
    • JEE
    • Karnataka CET
    • Karnataka PSC
    • Kerala PSC
    • MHT CET
    • MPPSC
    • NDA
    • NEET PG
    • NEET UG
    • NTA UGC
    • Railway Exam
    • SSC
    • TS EAMCET
    • UPSC
    • WBPSC
    • CFA
Login Join for Free
avtar
  • ProfileProfile
  • Settings Settings
  • Refer your friendsRefer your friends
  • Sign outSign out
  • Terms & conditions
  • •
  • Privacy policy
  • About
  • •
  • Careers
  • •
  • Blog

© 2023 Sorting Hat Technologies Pvt Ltd

Watch Free Classes
  • NEET 2024
  • NEET Answer Key 2024
  • NEET 2024 Preparation Toolkit
  • NEET Rank Predictor 2024
  • NEET College Predictor 2024
  • Study Materials
  • Notifications
  • NEET Syllabus 2024
  • NEET Question Paper
  • NEET Notes
  • NEET Books
  • NEET Paper Pattern
  • Video Lectures
  • Mind Maps
  • Downloads
  • Difference Between
  • Full Forms
  • Exam Tips
  • MCQs
NEET UG 2026 » NEET UG Study Material » Physics » Ripple factor
neetug_toolkit

Ripple factor

In this article we are going to learn about ripple factor, ripple factor of rectifier formula, ripple factor equation, ripple factor of half wave rectifier, full wave rectifier, bridge rectifier, and many more.

Table of Content
  •  

The ripple factor is the ratio of the rms value of the rectified output’s ac component to the average value of the rectified output. It is represented by γ and is a dimensionless quantity. Its value is never higher than the value of being together. 

Rectifier

Rectifier circuits are the most common circuits used in electronics since almost every electronic appliance runs on DC (Direct Current), but DC is not always accessible. The rectifier is the ideal option for converting AC to DC in enterprises and at home. Rectifiers are used in even our cell phone chargers to transform the AC from our home outlets to DC

Ripple factor

Ripple is a term used to describe the variation that happens inside the rectifier’s output. As a result, this factor is critical for determining the rate of variation within the resolved output. Using filters such as capacitive or another type of filter, the ripple within the output voltage can be decreased. Most circuits, such as rectifiers, use a capacitor in parallel with a thyristor or diodes to act as a filter inside the circuit. This capacitor aids in the reduction of ripple in the rectifier output. This article covers the definition, computation, and significance of the ripple factor (R.F), as well as R.F employing half-wave, full-wave, and bridge rectifiers.

The AC and DC components are primarily included in the rectifier output. The AC component inside the resolved output can be described as the ripple. The A.C component in the output is undesirable, as are the pulsations estimated in the rectifier’s output. The ripple voltage is simply the AC component inside the rectifier’s output. In the same way, ripple current is an AC component of output current.

The ripple factor is defined as the ratio of the AC component’s RMS value to the DC component’s RMS value within the rectifier’s output. The symbol is indicated by “,” and the R.F formula is given below.

R.F=I(AC)I(DC)

This is crucial when determining the efficiency of the rectifier output. The lower R.F. can be used to explain the rectifier’s efficiency.

The additional ripple factor is nothing more than the fluctuation of additional ac components inside the resolved output.

Derivation

According to R.F’s definition, the current RMS value for the entire load can be calculated as follows:

Irms=Idc2+Iac2

When the preceding equation is divided by Idc, the following equation is obtained.

IacIdc=1IdcIdc2+Iac2

The ripple factor formula is Iac /  Idc in this case.

R.F=1IdcIdc2+Iac2=IrmsIdc2-1

Ripple Factor of Half Wave Rectifier

In the case of a half-wave rectifier,

Irms=Im/2

Idc=Im/π

we are familiar with the formula of R.F =IrmsIdc2-1

To get the following, substitute the following Irms & Idc into the above equation.

R.F=Im2Im2-1=1.21

The ripple factor of a half-wave rectifier is 1.21, according to the given derivation. As a result, the AC component clearly outnumbers the DC component in the half-wave rectifier output. There is more pulsation in the output as a result of this. As a result, this type of rectifier is ineffective for converting AC to DC.

Shape, polygon Description automatically generated

Ripple Factor of Full Wave Rectifier

In the case of a full-wave rectifier,

Irms=Im/√2

Idc=2Im/π

we are familiar with the formula of R.F =IrmsIdc2-1

To get the following, substitute the following Irms &  Idc into the above equation.

R.F=Im√22Im2-1=0.48

The ripple factor of a full-wave rectifier is 0.48, based on the following derivation. As a result, the DC component is clearly above the AC component in the output of this rectifier. As an outcome, the output will have less pulsations than a half-wave rectifier. As a result, when converting AC to DC, this correction can be used at any time.

Ripple Factor of Bridge Rectifier

The bridge rectifier’s factor value is 0.482. Basically, the R.F value is primarily determined by the load waveform; alternatively, the output current is used. It is not dependent on the circuit design. As a result, whenever the output waveforms of bridge and center-tapped rectifiers are comparable, their value will be equivalent.

Ripple Effects

Some equipment can work with ripples, however some sensitive equipment, such as audio and testing, cannot due to the impacts of high-ripple inside the supplies. The following are some of the key causes of equipment ripple effects.

It has a harmful effect on sensitive instrumentation.

Ripple effects can lead to errors in digital circuits, as well as erroneous data corruption and logic circuit outputs.

Ripple effects can cause capacitors to overheat, resulting in damage.

These phenomena cause audio circuits to generate noise.

Conclusion

Ripple is a term used to describe the variation that happens inside the rectifier’s output. As a result, this factor is critical for determining the rate of variation within the resolved output. Using filters such as capacitive or another type of filter, the ripple within the output voltage can be decreased. Most circuits, such as rectifiers, use a capacitor in parallel with a thyristor or diodes to act as a filter inside the circuit. The ripple factor is defined as the ratio of the AC component’s RMS value to the DC component’s RMS value within the rectifier’s output. The symbol is indicated by “,” and the R.F formula is given below.

R.F=I(AC)I(DC)

Ripple Factor of Full Wave Rectifier

 

R.F=Im√22Im2-1=0.48

faq

Frequently asked questions

Get answers to the most common queries related to the NEET UG Examination Preparation.

What is a Bridge Rectifier?

Ans : The bridge rectifier’s primary function is to con...Read full

What is the Ripple Factor?

Ans : The ripple factor, which is described as the ratio of the ac component’s rms val...Read full

Ans : The bridge rectifier’s primary function is to convert AC power to DC electricity. To improve the bridge rectifier, a filter is also employed inside the circuit. To power the electronic components from the available AC mains supply, many electronic circuits require a rectified DC supply.

Ans : The ripple factor, which is described as the ratio of the ac component’s rms value to the dc component’s rms value, rises as the firing angle rises.

Crack NEET UG with Unacademy

Get subscription and access unlimited live and recorded courses from India’s best educators

  • Structured syllabus
  • Daily live classes
  • Ask doubts
  • Tests & practice
Learn more

Notifications

Get all the important information related to the NEET UG Examination including the process of application, important calendar dates, eligibility criteria, exam centers etc.

Best Books for NEET UG 2026 – Physics, Chemistry & Biology
How to Prepare for NEET UG 2026 at Home Without Coaching?
Last 10 Years NEET UG Question Papers – Download NEET UG Previous Year Question Paper with Solutions PDFs
NEET UG 2025 Counselling – Schedule, Dates, Fees, Seat Allotment
NEET UG 2026 Registration Date Extension
NEET UG 2026 Registration Process
NEET UG Answer Key 2025 – Download PDF
NEET UG Eligibility Criteria 2026: Minimum Age, Required Codes, and Attempts
NEET UG Exam Analysis
NEET UG Exam Calendar
NEET UG Exam Information
NEET UG EXAM PATTERN 2026
NEET UG Hall Ticket 2026 – Check Steps to Download
NEET UG Marking Scheme
NEET UG Previous Papers Analysis
NEET UG Registration Fees
NEET UG Results 2025 (OUT): Download Link @neet.nta.nic.in, NEET Score card
NEET UG Syllabus 2026
NEET UG Syllabus 2026 with Chapter-wise Weightage
See all

Related articles

Learn more topics related to Physics
Zeroth law of Thermodynamics

The Zeroth law of thermodynamics states that any system which is isolated from the rest will evolve so as to maximize its own internal energy.

Zener Diode as a Voltage Regulator

Zener diode is a form of diode that enables current to flow in one direction like a typical PN junction diode.

Zener diode

Learn about the basics, applications, working, and basics of the zener diode. It will help you understand the depths of this important device and help solve relevant questions.

Young’s modulus

Young's modulus is a measure of the elasticity or extension of a material when it's in the form of a stress–strain diagram. It is named after Thomas Young.

See all
Access more than

9,257+ courses for NEET UG

Get subscription

Trending Topics

  • NEET Preparation Tips
  • NEET 2024 Preparation Tips
  • How to Prepare for NEET from Class 11?
  • How to Prepare for NEET?
  • NEET 2024
  • NEET Syllabus 2024
  • NEET Question Paper
  • NEET Exam Pattern
  • NEET Notification
  • NEET Exam Calendar
  • NEET Results
  • NEET Eligibility
  • NEET Preparation Books
Download NEET Formulas

NEET Previous Year Question Papers

  • NEET 2022 Question Paper
  • NEET 2021 Question Paper
  • NEET 2020 Question Paper
  • NEET 2019 Question Paper
  • NEET 2018 Question Paper
combat_neetug

Related links

  • NEET Study Materials
  • How Many Attempts for NEET
  • How Many Marks Are Required in NEET for MBBS
  • Living World NEET Questions
  • MBBS Full Form
  • NEET Full Form
  • Physics NEET Syllabus
freeliveclasses_neetug
Download NEET 2023 question paper
Company Logo

Unacademy is India’s largest online learning platform. Download our apps to start learning


Starting your preparation?

Call us and we will answer all your questions about learning on Unacademy

Call +91 8585858585

Company
About usShikshodayaCareers
we're hiring
BlogsPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
Help & support
User GuidelinesSite MapRefund PolicyTakedown PolicyGrievance Redressal
Products
Learner appLearner appEducator appEducator appParent appParent app
Popular goals
IIT JEEUPSCSSCCSIR UGC NETNEET UG
Trending exams
GATECATCANTA UGC NETBank Exams
Study material
UPSC Study MaterialNEET UG Study MaterialCA Foundation Study MaterialJEE Study MaterialSSC Study Material

© 2025 Sorting Hat Technologies Pvt Ltd

Unacademy
  • Goals
    • AFCAT
    • AP EAMCET
    • Bank Exam
    • BPSC
    • CA Foundation
    • CAPF
    • CAT
    • CBSE Class 11
    • CBSE Class 12
    • CDS
    • CLAT
    • CSIR UGC
    • GATE
    • IIT JAM
    • JEE
    • Karnataka CET
    • Karnataka PSC
    • Kerala PSC
    • MHT CET
    • MPPSC
    • NDA
    • NEET PG
    • NEET UG
    • NTA UGC
    • Railway Exam
    • SSC
    • TS EAMCET
    • UPSC
    • WBPSC
    • CFA

Share via

COPY