Unidirectional and Bidirectional Elements Examples, Use
Hey, in this article we are going to learn about Unidirectional and Bidirectional elements. Electrical and electronic components are divided into so many types depends upon different factors. According to the direction of flow of current, electrical elements are divided into two types - 1. Unidirectional Elements and 2. Bidirectional Elements. Here, also we will know the properties, examples, and applications of those elements.
What is Unidirectional Element?
In simple words, Unidirectional Elements are those which allow the flow of current through them in one direction only. It will oppose the flow of current in opposite direction by creating a high resistance. We can say, unidirectional elements are those which act as a conductor in one direction and act as an insulator in the opposite direction. Remember that the nature of Unidirectional Element, unidirectional component, and the unidirectional device is the same.
Unidirectional Element Examples
PN Junction Diode is the best example of Unidirectional Element. PN Junction Diode allows the flow of current in one direction only.
Properties of Unidirectional Element
1. It only allows the flow of current in one direction only.
2. It offers very low resistance to the flow of current in one direction and offers very high resistance to the flow of current in opposite direction.
3. Most of the unidirectional elements are current-controlled rather than voltage-controlled.
4. Most of the unidirectional elements are active in nature means they need an external supply for their operation.
Application and Uses of Unidirectional Elements
Unidirectional elements are mostly used in electronic circuits such as rectifier circuits, inverter circuits, chopper circuits, etc.
What is Bidirectional Element?
In simple words, Bidirectional elements are those which allow the flow of current through them in both directions. They do not oppose the current when the direction of flow of current changed or we can say they offer the same resistance for the current flow in both directions. Bidirectional elements act as a conductor for current flow in both directions. Remember that, the nature of the bidirectional element, bidirectional component, and bidirectional device are the same.
Bidirectional Element Examples
A resistor is the best example of Bidirectional Element. A resistor allows the flow of current through it in both directions. TRIAC is an example of an active bidirectional device.
Properties of Bidirectional Element
1. Bidirectional element allows the flow of current through it in both directions.
2. It offers the same resistance value to the flow of current in both directions.
3. Most of the bidirectional devices are passive in nature.
Application and Uses of Bidirectional Element
Bidirectional elements such as resistors, inductors, capacitors are the most usable component of electrical or electronic circuits. They are used for current limiting, energy conversion, or energy-storing purposes.
Difference between Unidirectional and Bidirectional Element
1. The main difference between unidirectional and bidirectional elements is, unidirectional element allows the flow of current in one direction whereas the bidirectional element allows the flow of current in both directions.
2. Most of the unidirectional elements are active in nature or they required an external power supply for their operations whereas most of the bidirectional elements are passive in nature means they do not require any external supply for their operations.
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Unidirectional and Bidirectional Elements Examples, Use
Reviewed by Author
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August 01, 2021
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Reviewed by Author
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August 01, 2021
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