Diode

A diode is a two-terminal semiconductor device that allows electric current to flow in only one direction while blocking it in the opposite direction. It acts like an electronic one-way valve, with an anode (positive terminal) and cathode (negative terminal), conducting current when the anode is at a higher voltage than the cathode. Diodes are commonly used for rectification (converting AC to DC), voltage regulation, signal demodulation, and protecting circuits from reverse voltage damage.