Which component is used to smooth pulsating DC output after rectification?

The component used to smooth pulsating DC output after rectification is a filter. In power electronics, rectification converts alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC). However, the output of a rectifier typically consists of a pulsating form of DC, which still has ripples that may not be suitable for many applications.

A filter is designed to reduce these ripples and provide a more stable and smooth DC voltage. This is achieved by storing charge and releasing it as needed, thereby evening out the fluctuations in the voltage. Common types of filters include capacitors and inductors, which can be used individually or in combination to achieve the desired smoothing effect.

While regulators are crucial for voltage stabilization after the filtering process, their role comes after the initial smoothing is done, which is why they do not directly address the pulsating nature of the rectified output. Similarly, a rectifier’s primary purpose is to convert AC to DC, and a limiter circuit is designed to restrict voltage to a specified level, neither of which directly contributes to smoothing the DC output. Therefore, the correct answer is indeed the filter, as it specifically addresses the need to smooth out the pulsating DC from a rectifier.