A diode is a semiconductor device that essentially acts as a one-way switch for current. It allows current to flow easily in one direction, but severely restricts current from flowing in the opposite direction.
A rectifier is a device that converts an Alternating Current (AC) into a Direct Current (DC) by using one or more contact diodes. ... In simple words, a diode allows current in just one direction. This unique property of the diode allows it to act sort of a rectifier by converting an alternating current to a DC source
