Let us discuss today the operation of full wave rectifier:

In the full wave rectifier, two PN junction Diodes (say D₁ and D₂) a connected in the circuit. A load resistance (R_L) is connected in the circuit across which the output is taken.

            Let at any instant S₁ is positive and S₂ is negative. the diode (D₁) is forward biased and diode (D₂) is reversed biased so D₁ will conduct but D₂ will not.

            In the next half cycle, D₁ will be reversed biased whereas D₂ will be forward biased so the out put will be due to D₂ only. This process goes on and it must be noted the current through the load resistance flows in the same direction and ultimately a constant output is obtained which is a uni-directional pulsating d.c.

This is how a full wave rectifier operates.

Also read: Operation of half wave rectifier.