Using the 4-band resistor color code (1st digit, 2nd digit, multiplier, tolerance not given), what resistance value corresponds to the colors: orange, orange, orange?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: 33 kilohms

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Being able to decode resistor color bands is a fundamental skill for electronics assembly and troubleshooting. This problem uses the common 4-band scheme where the first two bands are significant digits and the third band is the multiplier.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Color sequence: orange (1st), orange (2nd), orange (multiplier).
  • No tolerance band is specified (often gold for 5% or silver for 10%).
  • Standard digit mapping: black=0, brown=1, red=2, orange=3, yellow=4, green=5, blue=6, violet=7, gray=8, white=9.


Concept / Approach:
Translate the first two bands into digits and apply the multiplier from the third band. Finally, convert to a convenient unit (ohms to kilohms) for readability and to match option formatting.


Step-by-Step Solution:
1st band (orange) → 3.2nd band (orange) → 3.3rd band (orange) → multiplier 10^3.Resistance R = 33 * 10^3 ohms = 33,000 ohms = 33 kilohms.


Verification / Alternative check:
Cross-check with a color code chart: orange–orange–orange = 33 with a multiplier of 10^3, confirming 33 kΩ. If a fourth band were gold, tolerance would be ±5%, but tolerance does not change the nominal value.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 22 kilohms: Would correspond to red–red–orange.
  • 3300 ohms: That is 3.3 kΩ, which would be orange–orange–red (10^2 multiplier).
  • 44000 ohms: Would require digits 44, which is not possible in a 2-digit scheme.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Misreading the multiplier band or reading the resistor from the wrong end.
  • Confusing red (2) and orange (3), which are visually similar in poor lighting.


Final Answer:
33 kilohms

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