Which of the following is a common application of semiconductor devices?

Semiconductor devices play a crucial role in power supplies, with rectifiers being one of their fundamental applications. Rectifiers convert alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC), making them essential in scenarios where electronic devices require a stable DC voltage. This conversion process is vital for a wide range of electronic equipment, from small gadgets to large industrial systems.

The operation of a rectifier relies on the unique properties of semiconductor materials, such as silicon, which exhibit a conductivity that can be manipulated by introducing impurities (a process known as doping). When used in a rectifier circuit, these semiconductor devices help control the flow of electrical current, ensuring that it only passes in one direction, thus enabling efficient power conversion.

While amplifiers for audio systems and motors for mechanical systems may incorporate semiconductor technology, they are not primarily categorized as common applications of semiconductor devices in the same manner as rectifiers. Resistors, on the other hand, are passive components that provide resistance in a circuit but do not function as semiconductor devices. Therefore, the rectifiers in power supplies represent a direct and significant use of semiconductors in electronics.