In a BJT output characteristic family, the “collector characteristic” is the plot used to study output behavior. Which description correctly identifies what is plotted and what bias is held constant?

Introduction / Context:
Transistor characteristic curves visualize how output current varies with output voltage for fixed input drive. Recognizing the correct axes and controlled variable lets you read operating regions, saturation, and the effect of base drive directly from the plot family.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• BJT operated with an applied base drive characterized by IB or equivalently VBB (through a resistor).
• Output axes are standard for collector characteristics.
• Small-signal effects like Early voltage may tilt the curves slightly.

Concept / Approach:
The collector characteristic keeps base drive constant (usually fixed IB steps) and plots collector current IC against collector-emitter voltage VCE. Families of curves are obtained for different IB values, showing active, saturation, and cutoff regions.

Step-by-Step Reasoning:
1) Fix base drive (IB or VBB), vary VCE.2) Measure IC as VCE changes.3) Plot IC (vertical axis) versus VCE (horizontal axis).4) Repeat for several base-drive levels to obtain the characteristic family.

Verification / Alternative check:
Datasheets show IC–VCE curves at stepped IB. Saturation appears where increased IB no longer increases IC proportionally due to limited VCE, validating the axis selection.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
IE vs VCE: emitter current is not the standard output axis.

VC or VCC: incorrect symbols; VC is a node voltage, VCC is supply, neither is the axis label for collector-emitter voltage.

IC vs VBE: that is an input characteristic, not the collector characteristic.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing VCE with VC or thinking the base voltage alone defines IB; the resistor and transistor characteristics together set IB.

Final Answer:
Collector current IC versus collector-emitter voltage VCE with base-bias voltage VBB held constant