Question 1

Fundamental electrical units: identify the SI unit used to measure resistance in circuits.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Correct use of SI units prevents confusion and ensures accurate communication in engineering. Resistance quantifies how much a component opposes current flow when a voltage is applied across it. The SI unit for resistance is central to Ohm’s law and circuit calculations. Given Data / Assumptions: We use the SI (International System of Units). Electrical quantities: voltage (V), current (A), resistance (Ω), power (W). Ohm’s law relates these quantities directly. Concept / Approach: Ohm’s law states V = I * R. Rearranging gives R = V / I. The derived SI unit of resistance is volt per ampere. This unit is given the special name “ohm,” symbol Ω. It is distinct from volt (potential), ampere (current), and watt (power). Step-by-Step Solution: Recall Ohm’s law: R = V / I.Identify SI base/derived units: V for volt, A for ampere, Ω for ohm, W for watt.Therefore, resistance is measured in ohms (Ω). Verification / Alternative check: Dimensional check: 1 Ω = 1 V / 1 A. Power relation P = V * I = I^2 * R = V^2 / R further confirms consistency of units. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Volt: measures electric potential difference, not resistance.Ampere: measures current, not resistance.Watt: measures power, not resistance.None of the above: incorrect since “ohm” is correct. Common Pitfalls: Interchanging symbols (Ω vs W vs V vs A); forgetting that resistance is a scalar property independent of frequency in ideal resistors. Final Answer: ohm

Question 2

Ideal transformer voltage ratio application: if the turns ratio N1/N2 = 2 and the primary voltage is 120 V (RMS), what RMS voltage appears at the secondary winding?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Transformers scale voltages according to their turns ratio. Knowing the primary-to-secondary turns ratio allows quick calculation of the secondary voltage under ideal conditions, assuming negligible losses and magnetizing current effects. Given Data / Assumptions: Turns ratio N1/N2 = 2 (primary has twice as many turns as secondary). Primary RMS voltage V1 = 120 V. Ideal transformer behavior (V proportional to turns, no load effects considered). Concept / Approach: For an ideal transformer, V1 / V2 = N1 / N2. Rearranging gives V2 = V1 * (N2 / N1). With N1/N2 = 2, N2/N1 = 1/2, so the secondary voltage is half the primary voltage. Step-by-Step Solution: Use ratio: V2 = V1 * (N2 / N1).Substitute: V2 = 120 * (1 / 2).Compute: V2 = 60 V. Verification / Alternative check: Check power consistency for later use: if load draws I2, then ideal I1 = I2 * (N2 / N1) = I2 / 2, preserving apparent power V1 * I1 = V2 * I2 under ideal conditions. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 0 V: implies open-circuit with no induced voltage—incorrect under ideal mutual coupling.36 V or 40 V: do not match the 1/2 ratio.None of the above: incorrect because 60 V is correct. Common Pitfalls: Inverting the ratio (multiplying instead of dividing); confusing turns ratio with impedance ratio (which uses the square of the ratio). Final Answer: 60 V

Question 3

Definition of electric current: choose the option that best states what “current” means in physics and electrical engineering.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: “Current” is one of the fundamental electrical quantities, alongside voltage and resistance. It underpins circuit analysis, power calculations, and electromagnetic theory. Accurately defining current helps distinguish it from voltage (cause) and charge (quantity). Given Data / Assumptions: Macroscopic definition in conductors and devices. Conventional current direction is from positive to negative; electron flow is opposite. Current is measured in amperes (coulombs per second). Concept / Approach: Electric current is the rate of flow of charge through a cross-sectional area. In metals, mobile charges are electrons; in electrolytes and plasmas, charged ions also contribute. The formal definition is I = dQ / dt, where Q is charge in coulombs and t is time in seconds. Step-by-Step Solution: Relate current to charge motion: moving charges constitute current.Use rate form: I = dQ / dt (A = C/s).Identify carriers: electrons in metals, holes and electrons in semiconductors, ions in electrolytes. Verification / Alternative check: Measurement uses an ammeter placed in series; integrating current over time recovers charge transfer Q = ∫ I dt, consistent with the definition. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Imbalance of charges: describes voltage build-up or static charge, not current.Force that causes electrons to flow: that is electric field or electromotive force (voltage), not current.Number of free electrons in an atom: relates to atomic structure, not current. Common Pitfalls: Confusing electron flow with conventional current direction; equating voltage and current due to Ohm’s law without recognizing their distinct physical meanings. Final Answer: The flow of charged particles through a material

Question 4

Measuring the rate of electron (charge) flow: which instrument is primarily used to measure electric current in a circuit?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Electrical measurements typically involve three cornerstone instruments: voltmeters (voltage), ammeters (current), and ohmmeters (resistance). Choosing the correct instrument for the quantity of interest is essential for safe and accurate diagnostics in circuits. Given Data / Assumptions: The target measurement is electric current, the rate of charge flow. Standard bench instruments or multimeters are available. Proper connection methods are assumed (series for ammeter). Concept / Approach: An ammeter measures current in amperes by inserting the meter in series with the circuit branch. This ensures that the measured current passes through the meter’s shunt. In contrast, a voltmeter connects in parallel across two points to measure potential difference, and an ohmmeter applies an internal source to infer resistance. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify the desired quantity: current (A).Select the series instrument: ammeter.Connect in series and choose an appropriate range to avoid overloading. Verification / Alternative check: On a digital multimeter, switching to the “A” or “mA/μA” function uses internal shunts; readings correspond to charge flow rate through the meter. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Voltmeter: measures potential difference, not current.Wattmeter: measures real power (combination of voltage and current with phase), not current alone.Ohmmeter: measures resistance, typically with the circuit de-energized.None of the above: incorrect because ammeter is correct. Common Pitfalls: Connecting an ammeter in parallel (may short the source); forgetting to move the probe to the correct jack for high-current ranges; measuring current on a live high-energy circuit without proper protection. Final Answer: Ammeter

Question 5

In basic atomic physics and electronics, how do the electric charges of an electron and a proton differ? Choose the statement that correctly identifies their charge polarities.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Understanding the fundamental charges of subatomic particles is a cornerstone for electricity, electronics, and chemistry. Charge polarity determines how particles interact in electric fields, how current flows, and why materials behave as conductors, insulators, or semiconductors. Given Data / Assumptions: An electron is a stable subatomic particle found outside the atomic nucleus. A proton is a stable subatomic particle located in the nucleus. Charge polarity refers to the sign (negative or positive) of electrical charge. Concept / Approach: By definition, electrons carry a unit negative charge while protons carry an equal-magnitude positive charge. Neutrons are electrically neutral. Because the magnitudes are equal, a neutral atom has equal numbers of electrons and protons, balancing total charge to zero. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Recall the standard charges: electron = negative, proton = positive.2) Compare magnitude: both have equal magnitude of charge, but opposite signs.3) Determine the correct descriptive statement: electron (negative) and proton (positive). Verification / Alternative check: Charge conservation and electrostatic attraction of unlike charges (electron–proton) confirm the polarity assignment used throughout physics and electronics. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Electron positive / proton negative: reverses the true polarities.Electron or proton with no charge: incorrect; that describes a neutron, not an electron or proton.None of the above: unnecessary because the correct pairing is available. Common Pitfalls: Confusing the sign convention or assuming charge depends on location in the atom; polarity is intrinsic to the particle type. Final Answer: An electron has a negative charge and a proton has a positive charge.

Question 6

In ideal source modeling for circuit analysis, which statement best describes an ideal voltage source and its internal resistance characteristic?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Ideal sources are simplifying models used to reason about circuits. Knowing the defining property of an ideal voltage source helps predict how it behaves with any load and informs practical approximations in power supplies and instrumentation. Given Data / Assumptions: We consider an ideal voltage source, not a practical one. Internal resistance is the Thevenin resistance seen looking into the source terminals. Load may vary arbitrarily without altering the source’s stated behavior. Concept / Approach: An ideal voltage source maintains a fixed terminal voltage regardless of load current. For that to be true in the Thevenin model, the internal resistance must be zero ohms so that no voltage drop occurs inside the source as current changes. This is the dual of an ideal current source, which has infinite internal resistance (Norton resistance). Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Define ideal voltage source: Vout is constant for any load current.2) Model as Thevenin source: Vs in series with Rs.3) Require Rs = 0 Ω so Vout = Vs (no internal drop) for all currents. Verification / Alternative check: Using voltage division, Vout = Vs * RL / (Rs + RL). To keep Vout independent of RL, Rs must be 0, confirming the definition. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Infinite internal resistance: That describes an ideal current source.Load dependent voltage: Contradicts the definition of a voltage source.Load-dependent current: True in practice, but not the defining internal-resistance property.None of the above: Invalid since zero internal resistance is correct. Common Pitfalls: Confusing Thevenin and Norton duals; assuming nonzero internal resistance for “ideal” models. Final Answer: Zero internal resistance.

Question 7

In AC circuit fundamentals, which description best characterizes a purely capacitive circuit under sinusoidal excitation?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Understanding limiting cases such as purely capacitive or purely inductive circuits builds intuition for impedance, phase, and power behavior in AC systems. This question probes recognition of what opposes current and the associated phase relationships in an ideal capacitor-only circuit. Given Data / Assumptions: Sinusoidal steady-state operation. No resistive component present (ideal capacitor only). Standard sign convention for phase: current leads voltage in a capacitor. Concept / Approach: In a pure capacitive circuit, the impedance is Xc = 1 / (2 * pi * f * C) and is entirely reactive. There is no real (resistive) part, so the only opposition to current is capacitive reactance. The current leads the voltage by 90 degrees, which implies voltage lags by 90 degrees, not leads. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Identify opposition: pure reactance Xc, no resistance R.2) State phase: current leads voltage by 90 degrees in a capacitor.3) Conclude that capacitive reactance is the sole opposition in this ideal case. Verification / Alternative check: Using phasors, Z = −jXc has zero real part; hence only reactive opposition exists and phase shift is −90 degrees for voltage relative to current. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Resistances provide the only opposition: false; there is no R.Voltage leads current by 90 degrees: reversed; current leads in a capacitor.Combinations of R and Xc: not a pure capacitor case.None of the above: incorrect since option B is correct. Common Pitfalls: Mixing up phase lead/lag signs; assuming some resistance is always present in idealized examples. Final Answer: Capacitive reactance provides the only opposition to current flow.

Question 8

Compute the inductive reactance X_L of a 2 H inductor operating at 60 Hz. Provide the nearest whole-ohm value.

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Inductive reactance quantifies how an inductor opposes AC. It increases with both inductance and frequency. Quick calculations of X_L are essential in designing filters, chokes, and setting impedance levels in power and signal circuits. Given Data / Assumptions: L = 2 H (henries). f = 60 Hz (mains frequency in many regions). Ideal inductor; standard formula for X_L applies. Concept / Approach: The standard relationship is X_L = 2 * pi * f * L. Units: X_L in ohms when f is in hertz and L in henries. The result typically rounds to the nearest ohm for component selection and approximate analysis. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Write formula: X_L = 2 * pi * f * L.2) Substitute values: X_L = 2 * pi * 60 * 2.3) Compute: 2 * pi ≈ 6.283; 6.283 * 60 * 2 ≈ 753.98 Ω.4) Round to nearest whole ohm: ≈ 754 Ω. Verification / Alternative check: Use approximate pi = 3.14: X_L ≈ 2 * 3.14 * 60 * 2 = 753.6 Ω, which rounds to 754 Ω, confirming the calculation. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 30 Ω / 60 Ω / 120 Ω: Far below the correct computed value at 60 Hz with 2 H.None of the above: Invalid because 754 Ω matches the computed answer. Common Pitfalls: Forgetting the factor 2 * pi, mixing up inductive with capacitive reactance, or rounding too early leading to large errors. Final Answer: 754 Ohm.

Question 9

Power in resistive elements: which equation directly computes power dissipation when both the voltage drop (E) across the resistor and the current (I) through it are known?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Power relationships in circuits are foundational. Engineers often select formulas based on which quantities are measured. When both current and voltage are known across a component, there is a direct expression to compute power dissipation without needing resistance. Given Data / Assumptions: Element is resistive for purposes of average power. Voltage drop E (volts) and current I (amperes) are known. We seek instantaneous or average power in the simple V–I form. Concept / Approach: The fundamental power relation is P = V * I. For a resistor, this gives the real power converted to heat. Alternative forms P = I^2 * R and P = V^2 / R come from substituting Ohm’s law when only one of V or I is known along with R. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Start from the definition of electric power: P = V * I.2) Identify the knowns: both E (same as V) and I are given.3) Conclude the direct formula: P = I * E. Verification / Alternative check: Cross-check by Ohm’s law: If R is known, P = I^2 * R = V^2 / R = V * I; all are consistent when the correct substitutions are made. Why Other Options Are Wrong: P = E^2 / R and P = I^2 * R: Correct in other contexts, but not needed when both V and I are already known.I = P / E: Rearranged form solving for I, not P.None of the above: Incorrect because P = I * E is valid and preferred. Common Pitfalls: Using a form requiring R when R is not known or mixing average power with reactive power in AC circuits. Final Answer: P = IE.

Question 10

Opto-electronic energy conversion: which device primarily converts incident light energy directly into electrical energy for power generation or sensing?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Many electronic components respond to light, but only certain devices are intended to convert light energy directly into electrical power. Distinguishing among light-sensitive components is key for selecting parts in energy-harvesting and sensing applications. Given Data / Assumptions: We want primary light-to-electric conversion. Direct electrical output under illumination is desired. Context includes both energy harvesting and sensing. Concept / Approach: A solar cell (photovoltaic cell) generates a voltage and current when illuminated via the photovoltaic effect. Photodiodes and phototransistors are light sensors optimized for signal detection, typically requiring bias and producing small currents; they are not intended primarily as power sources. A thermocouple converts temperature differences to voltage via the Seebeck effect, not light directly. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Identify device with photovoltaic effect: the solar cell.2) Contrast with photodiode/transistor: mainly sensing, not power generation.3) Exclude thermocouple: converts heat gradients, not light. Verification / Alternative check: Solar panels, which are series/parallel assemblies of solar cells, are ubiquitous proof of light-to-electric power conversion at practical scales. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Thermocouple: temperature-to-voltage, unrelated to light.Photodiode: primarily a sensor; produces small photocurrents, not generally used as a power source.Photo transistor: light-controlled transistor, again a sensor/amplifier, not a power generator.None of the above: incorrect because solar cell is correct. Common Pitfalls: Assuming all light-sensitive devices are interchangeable; confusing photovoltaic effect (power) with photoconductive or phototransistor sensing (signal). Final Answer: solar cell.

Question 11

Consumer portable appliances: which battery chemistry is most commonly used in cordless electric knives and similar legacy cordless tools?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Battery chemistry impacts energy density, cycle life, self-discharge, and cost. Recognizing which chemistries are used in typical cordless appliances helps with maintenance, replacement, and safe disposal of older devices. Given Data / Assumptions: Appliance: cordless electric knife (handheld consumer device). Legacy designs prior to the widespread adoption of lithium-ion in small appliances. Rechargeable chemistry expected. Concept / Approach: Historically, nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd or Nicad) cells have been popular for cordless tools and small appliances due to high discharge rates, robustness, and reasonable cycle life. Zinc–carbon cells are primary (nonrechargeable). Mercury cells are primary button cells for low-drain applications and are largely discontinued for environmental reasons. Lead–acid is rechargeable but heavy, better suited for automotive or large tools, not compact handheld kitchen devices. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Require rechargeable, moderate energy density, good current delivery.2) Eliminate primary chemistries (zinc–carbon, mercury cell).3) Eliminate heavy lead–acid for small handheld devices.4) Select Nicad as the prevalent legacy choice. Verification / Alternative check: Product teardowns and service manuals for older cordless kitchen tools commonly specify Ni-Cd battery packs, often sub-C cells in series for 7.2–9.6 V packs. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Zinc–carbon: not rechargeable, low drain.Mercury cell: primary button cell, environmental concerns.Lead–acid: heavy and bulky for handheld kitchen use.None of the above: incorrect since Nicad fits. Common Pitfalls: Assuming modern lithium-ion was always used; many legacy consumer appliances relied on Ni-Cd before Li-ion became ubiquitous. Final Answer: Nicad battery.

Question 12

Stiff source rule-of-thumb (1% regulation criterion): a 15 V source has internal resistance Rs = 0.2 Ω. Which load resistance is the smallest that still qualifies the source as “stiff” under the 1% rule (Rs ≤ 0.01 * RL)?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: A voltage source is considered “stiff” if its terminal voltage changes very little when the load varies. A common engineering rule uses a ratio between source resistance and load resistance to quickly judge stiffness and expected regulation without a full analysis. Given Data / Assumptions: Ideal source voltage Vs = 15 V (magnitude does not affect the ratio test). Internal (source) resistance Rs = 0.2 Ω. Stiffness rule-of-thumb: Rs ≤ 0.01 * RL (approximately 1% regulation). Concept / Approach: Using the voltage divider model, Vout = Vs * RL / (Rs + RL). If Rs is much smaller than RL, Vout ≈ Vs with minimal drop. The 1% rule requires Rs to be at most 1% of RL, i.e., RL ≥ 100 * Rs. For a given Rs, we compute the minimum RL that satisfies the criterion and select that from the options. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Apply criterion: RL ≥ 100 * Rs.2) Substitute Rs = 0.2 Ω → RL ≥ 100 * 0.2 = 20 Ω.3) Among the options, 20 Ω is the smallest value meeting the rule; larger values (30 Ω, 100 Ω) also qualify but are not the smallest qualifying load. Verification / Alternative check: Compute regulation at RL = 20 Ω: Vout = 15 * 20 / (0.2 + 20) ≈ 15 * 20 / 20.2 ≈ 14.85 V (about 1% drop), confirming stiffness at the threshold. Why Other Options Are Wrong: 10 Ω: Fails the 1% rule because Rs would be 2% of RL.30 Ω and 100 Ω: They are acceptable but not the smallest that still qualifies under the stated rule.None of the above: Incorrect because 20 Ω meets the criterion exactly. Common Pitfalls: Ignoring that the question asks for the minimum qualifying value; mixing absolute numbers with ratio-based criteria; forgetting that Vs magnitude does not change the ratio test. Final Answer: 20 Ohm.

Question 13

Magnetism fundamentals: what is a lodestone (also historically spelled loadstone) in terms of its magnetic nature?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Lodestone is a historically important material that led to early compasses and the study of magnetism. Recognizing its nature clarifies distinctions among natural magnets, manufactured magnets, and materials with weak magnetic properties. Given Data / Assumptions: Lodestone (magnetite rich) occurs naturally. It exhibits persistent magnetic properties. We compare it to temporary, artificial, and weakly magnetic materials. Concept / Approach: Lodestone is naturally magnetized magnetite (Fe3O4). Unlike temporary magnets, which require induction and quickly lose magnetization, and artificial magnets, which are manufactured and magnetized by design, lodestone is naturally occurring and already magnetized. Paramagnetic alloys exhibit only weak attraction in external magnetic fields and do not retain significant magnetization without a field. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Identify lodestone composition: magnetite occurring in nature.2) Determine magnetic character: persistent natural magnetism.3) Select classification: natural magnet. Verification / Alternative check: Historical use of lodestones to magnetize iron needles for compasses corroborates its status as a naturally magnetized mineral. Why Other Options Are Wrong: Temporary magnet: loses magnetism easily; not characteristic of lodestone.Artificial magnet: man-made, whereas lodestone is naturally occurring.Paramagnetic alloy: only weak, non-retentive magnetism, unlike lodestone’s strong natural magnetism.None of the above: incorrect because “a natural magnet” is correct. Common Pitfalls: Confusing spelling variants (lodestone vs loadstone) and conflating natural with manufactured magnets. Final Answer: a natural magnet.

Question 14

Series RLC behavior relative to resonance: when a series RLC circuit operates at a frequency above its resonant frequency, it behaves most like which simpler series circuit?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Series RLC circuits transition from capacitive to inductive behavior as frequency sweeps through resonance. Recognizing which element “dominates” above or below resonance is crucial for filter design and understanding impedance and phase. Given Data / Assumptions: Ideal series R, L, and C components. Single-frequency sinusoidal steady state. Resonant frequency fr where X_L = X_C. Concept / Approach: Below resonance, capacitive reactance magnitude exceeds inductive reactance (|X_C| > |X_L|), so the net reactance is capacitive; the circuit resembles an RC behavior. At resonance, X_L = X_C and the impedance is purely resistive (Z ≈ R). Above resonance, |X_L| > |X_C|, so the net reactance is inductive; the circuit behaves like an RL network with inductive phase characteristics. Step-by-Step Solution: 1) Define resonance: X_L = 2 * pi * f * L; X_C = 1 / (2 * pi * f * C).2) For f > fr, X_L increases and X_C decreases → X_L − X_C > 0 (inductive).3) Conclude behavior: series RLC behaves like a series RL circuit above fr. Verification / Alternative check: Phasor angle of impedance above resonance is positive (inductive), confirming RL-like behavior; below resonance it is negative (capacitive), RC-like; at resonance it is zero (resistive). Why Other Options Are Wrong: Series RC: true below resonance, not above.Below resonance case: the opposite frequency region.Purely resistive: occurs only at resonance, not above.None of the above: unnecessary because series RL is correct. Common Pitfalls: Reversing the above/below resonance behaviors; forgetting that at resonance the reactive parts cancel and impedance reduces to R alone. Final Answer: series RL circuit.

Question 15

Electric power calculation using P = V * I in basic circuits: What is the power dissipation (in watts) of a resistor that has 24 V across it and 0.25 A flowing through it?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: This question checks fundamental DC circuit analysis: calculating power dissipated by a resistor when voltage across it and current through it are known. Such computations are routine in electronics troubleshooting, sizing components, and estimating heat generation for thermal design. Given Data / Assumptions: Voltage across the resistor, V = 24 V. Current through the resistor, I = 0.25 A. Assume ideal components and steady-state conditions. Standard power relation P = V * I applies. Concept / Approach: Electrical power in a passive element is computed using P = V * I. Equivalent forms include P = I^2 * R and P = V^2 / R, but when both V and I are given directly, the product form is simplest and avoids intermediate steps. Step-by-Step Solution: Start with P = V * I.Insert the values: P = 24 * 0.25.Compute: 24 * 0.25 = 6.Therefore, the power dissipated is 6 W. Verification / Alternative check: If the resistor value were needed, R = V / I = 24 / 0.25 = 96 Ohm. Using P = I^2 * R → 0.25^2 * 96 = 0.0625 * 96 = 6 W, confirming the result. Why Other Options Are Wrong: (a) 3 W halves the correct product; (c) 64 W mistakenly multiplies 8 * 8 or squares incorrectly; (d) 122 W has no basis in the given values; (e) is invalid because a correct answer exists. Common Pitfalls: Mixing power formulas, arithmetic slips with decimals, or assuming RMS conversions unnecessarily in a simple DC scenario. Final Answer: 6 W.

Question 16

Foundations of solid-state physics: What is meant by a “free electron” in materials and electrical engineering contexts?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Understanding charge carriers is essential to explain conductivity. In metals and doped semiconductors, electrons may become mobile and contribute to current. This question clarifies the term “free electron,” commonly used in band theory and conduction models. Given Data / Assumptions: We are discussing electrons within solids. Standard definitions from basic electricity and materials science apply. Charge of an electron is constant and negative. Concept / Approach: A “free electron” is not charge-neutral or cost-related; it is an electron that is not bound to a specific atom and can move through the crystal lattice under an electric field. In metals, many valence electrons are delocalized; in semiconductors, doping and thermal energy can liberate electrons to the conduction band. Step-by-Step Solution: Recall electron charge: q = −1.602e−19 C; this never changes.Bound electrons remain associated with atoms and cannot conduct easily.A free electron is liberated (delocalized), able to drift through the material.Therefore, the precise definition matches an electron freed from its parent atom. Verification / Alternative check: In band theory, free electrons occupy the conduction band and have effective mass and mobility parameters that determine conductivity. Why Other Options Are Wrong: (b) Relates to cost, not physics; (c) electrons always carry negative charge; (d) no electron has “double charge” in normal circumstances. Common Pitfalls: Confusing “free” with “neutral,” or assuming free electrons are a different particle type. They are simply unbound/mobile electrons within the material. Final Answer: An electron that has been freed from its parent atom.

Question 17

AC resistor behavior — phase relationship: Which statement correctly describes current and voltage across a pure resistor in an AC circuit?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: In AC analysis, the phase relationships between voltage and current depend on the element type. For resistors, the relationship is simplest: there is no phase shift. This concept underpins power factor, phasor diagrams, and impedance calculations. Given Data / Assumptions: Ideal, linear resistor with no reactive effects. Sinusoidal steady-state conditions. No additional reactive components present. Concept / Approach: Ohm’s law in phasor form for a resistor is V = I * R, where R is real (no imaginary component). Therefore, voltage and current share the same phase angle; neither leads nor lags. Step-by-Step Solution: Represent the impedance: Z_R = R (angle 0 degrees).Phasor relationship: V = I * R with angle(V) − angle(I) = 0.Conclude that current and voltage are in phase across the resistor. Verification / Alternative check: Instantaneous power p(t) = v(t) * i(t) has positive average value with no reactive oscillation, consistent with zero phase shift. Why Other Options Are Wrong: (b) and (c) describe capacitive or inductive phase shifts, not resistive behavior. (d) cannot be correct because options are mutually exclusive. Common Pitfalls: Confusing resistor behavior with that of capacitors (current leads voltage) and inductors (current lags voltage). Final Answer: Current and voltages are in phase through a resistor.

Question 18

Transistor output characteristics and load line: The saturation point on a transistor’s characteristic is approximately the same as which location on the DC load line?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Understanding the DC load line and operating point (Q-point) is key to transistor biasing. The load line connects cutoff and saturation extremes. Recognizing where saturation lies aids in amplifier design and switching applications. Given Data / Assumptions: Bipolar junction transistor in a common-emitter configuration. Standard definition: cutoff is near zero collector current; saturation is near minimal collector-emitter voltage. DC load line drawn on I_C versus V_CE axes. Concept / Approach: The load line intersects axes at two limits: at V_CE = V_CC (I_C ≈ 0) is cutoff, and at I_C ≈ V_CC / R_C (with V_CE ≈ 0) is saturation. On the typical plot, the saturation point is located near the high-current, low-voltage extreme—the upper end of the load line when plotted with I_C vertical and V_CE horizontal. Step-by-Step Solution: Identify endpoints: cutoff at low I_C, high V_CE; saturation at high I_C, low V_CE.Relate to the load line orientation on the I_C axis.Conclude saturation corresponds to the upper end of the load line. Verification / Alternative check: By examining device curves, the Q-point moves toward saturation as base drive increases until V_CE approaches a small saturation voltage and I_C approaches its load-limited maximum. Why Other Options Are Wrong: (a) Cutoff is the opposite extreme. (b) The lower end on I_C axis would indicate small current. (d) “Infinity” is not meaningful in this context. Common Pitfalls: Confusing axis orientation or mistaking which end corresponds to saturation versus cutoff. Final Answer: upper end of the load line.

Question 19

PN junction physics — origin of the depletion region: What primary factor creates the depletion layer at a semiconductor junction?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: The depletion region is central to diode operation. It dictates junction capacitance, barrier potential, and conduction behavior. Understanding what physically constitutes this region clarifies how diodes and transistors function. Given Data / Assumptions: Standard PN junction formed by adjacent P-type and N-type regions. Thermal equilibrium without external bias. Basic semiconductor processes apply. Concept / Approach: Initially, carriers diffuse across the junction, and many electrons and holes recombine. This leaves behind uncovered, immobile ionized donors on the N side and ionized acceptors on the P side. These fixed charges (ions) create an internal electric field and the barrier potential that opposes further diffusion. Hence, the depletion layer is the region depleted of mobile carriers but rich in fixed ions. Step-by-Step Solution: Carrier diffusion occurs from high to low concentration.Recombination removes mobile carriers near the junction.Uncovered dopant atoms become fixed ions, establishing space charge.This space charge region is the depletion layer. Verification / Alternative check: Textbook cross-sections show ionized donors/acceptors as the source of the built-in field; the field magnitude corresponds to the barrier potential at equilibrium. Why Other Options Are Wrong: (a) Doping enables the effect but does not itself constitute the layer; (b) recombination is a process that leads to ions being exposed; (c) the barrier potential is a consequence of the ionized region, not its cause. Common Pitfalls: Confusing cause and effect: recombination and diffusion lead to the ionized region; the ions create the field and barrier, which then limit further diffusion. Final Answer: Ions.

Question 20

Capacitor response to non-sinusoidal excitation: When a square-wave voltage is applied to a capacitor, how are the resulting voltage and current waveforms affected?

Accepted Answer

Introduction / Context: Time-domain behavior of capacitors is foundational for filtering and signal shaping. A capacitor resists sudden voltage changes, so applying a square wave reveals its differentiating effect on current and smoothing effect on voltage. Given Data / Assumptions: An ideal capacitor driven by an ideal square-wave voltage source. No significant series resistance except any minimal source impedance. Observation of resulting voltage across the capacitor and current through it. Concept / Approach: For a capacitor, i = C * dv/dt. A square wave has nearly instantaneous edges (large dv/dt at transitions), creating sharp current spikes (peaked current). Between transitions, dv/dt ≈ 0, so current falls toward zero while the capacitor voltage exponentially approaches the new level if resistance is present. Step-by-Step Solution: Apply i = C * dv/dt to a square-wave input.At rising and falling edges, dv/dt is high → large current peaks.During constant-voltage intervals, dv/dt ≈ 0 → current tends to zero.The capacitor voltage cannot jump; it transitions smoothly (rounded edges). Verification / Alternative check: Viewing on an oscilloscope: current pulses at edges; voltage across the capacitor shows rounded, exponential-like transitions rather than perfect squares. Why Other Options Are Wrong: (a) Reverses roles of V and I; (c) both rounded is incorrect because current spikes; (d) both peaked is incorrect because capacitor voltage cannot peak instantaneously like current. Common Pitfalls: Forgetting i = C * dv/dt, or assuming the capacitor voltage can change abruptly, which violates capacitor behavior. Final Answer: peak the current and round off the voltage waveforms.

Electronic Principles Questions