Question

What is the primary role of a diode in amplitude modulation (AM) as a non-linear device?

A) To amplify the modulating signal
B) To provide frequency stability
C) To generate the carrier signal
D) To introduce non-linearity and facilitate signal demodulation

Answer 1

The primary role of a diode in AM is to introduce non-linearity and facilitate signal demodulation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The primary role of a diode in amplitude modulation (AM) as a non-linear device is D) To introduce non-linearity and facilitate signal demodulation.

In amplitude modulation, the audio signal is used to vary the amplitude of the carrier wave. This modulation process results in the creation of sidebands around the carrier frequency. These sidebands contain the information being transmitted.

A diode is a non-linear device that allows the modulation process to occur by introducing non-linearity to the system. It rectifies the modulated signal, which separates the positive and negative components of the sidebands. This rectification allows for demodulation of the carrier signal to retrieve the original audio signal.