Bode plot paper choice for magnitude plotting In standard Bode diagrams, the amplitude ratio (or magnitude in dB) is plotted versus frequency ω on what type of graph paper?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: semi-log

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Bode plots are frequency-response tools widely used in control and electronics. They present magnitude and phase as functions of frequency. Understanding the axes scales is essential to interpret slope rules, corner frequencies, and asymptotes correctly.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Amplitude ratio (or magnitude in dB) vs frequency ω.
  • Standard Bode magnitude plot conventions.
  • No special modifications (e.g., Nichols charts).


Concept / Approach:
The Bode magnitude plot uses a logarithmic frequency axis and a linear magnitude axis (often in dB). This corresponds to a semi-log graph (log scale on the x-axis, linear scale on the y-axis). The log frequency axis spreads decades evenly and simplifies reading of slopes and breakpoints.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify axes: frequency ⇒ log scale; magnitude (dB) ⇒ linear scale.Match to paper type: semi-log.Confirm compatibility with straight-line asymptotes and decade spacing.


Verification / Alternative check:
Textbooks depict Bode magnitude on semi-log grids; phase plots also use the same log frequency axis with linear phase on the vertical axis.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Log–log — used for other plotting styles (e.g., power laws) but not the standard Bode magnitude layout.Ordinary linear–linear — does not compress the large frequency span effectively.Triangular — not a standard engineering graph paper type.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing “log–log” with “semi-log.” Remember: Bode uses a log scale only on the frequency axis.



Final Answer:
semi-log

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