Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: Both A and R are true but R is not correct explanation of A
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Ferroelectric materials possess a spontaneous polarization that can be reversed by an external electric field, producing a characteristic hysteresis loop. This item probes factual knowledge of examples and the correct role of hysteresis as a property, not a cause.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Both materials are established ferroelectrics. Hysteresis is a signature behaviour of ferroelectrics, but it is a consequence of domain switching and energy barriers, not the underlying reason why a given crystal is ferroelectric. The microscopic cause lies in non-centrosymmetric structures enabling spontaneous polarization.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Validate A: Rochelle salt and BaTiO3 are ferroelectric → true.Validate R: Ferroelectrics exhibit P–E hysteresis → true.Causality check: R describes a property that results from ferroelectricity; it does not explain why those specific materials are ferroelectric → not a correct explanation.
Verification / Alternative check:
Phase transitions (Curie temperature) and crystal symmetry analysis confirm spontaneous polarization in these materials and their hysteresis loops under cycling fields.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
(a) incorrectly treats a symptom (hysteresis) as the cause. (c) and (d) misstate truth values. (e) rejects well-known facts.
Common Pitfalls:
Final Answer:
Both A and R are true but R is not correct explanation of A
Discussion & Comments