Assertion (A): A half-wavelength (λ/2) transmission line section can be used as a 1:1 transformer to present the load directly at the input. Reason (R): For a lossless line, the input impedance of a half-wavelength section equals the load impedance (Z_in = Z_L) because the impedance repeats every λ/2. Choose the correct option evaluating A and R.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Both A and R are correct and R is correct explanation of A

Explanation:


Introduction:
Transmission-line sections are often used as impedance transformers. A special case is a half-wavelength (λ/2) section, which repeats impedances seen at its load end. This question checks whether λ/2 can act as a 1:1 transformer and why.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Lossless or low-loss uniform line
  • Electrical length = λ/2 at the frequency of interest
  • Characteristic impedance Z0 is real


Concept / Approach:
The general input impedance of a line is Z_in = Z0 * (Z_L + j Z0 tan(βl)) / (Z0 + j Z_L tan(βl)). For l = λ/2, βl = π, and tan(π) = 0, simplifying Z_in to Z_L. Hence, a λ/2 line repeats the load impedance at its input, acting as a 1:1 transformer.


Step-by-Step Solution:

1) Start from Z_in formula with l = λ/2 → tan(βl) = 0.2) Substitute to get Z_in = Z0 * (Z_L + 0) / (Z0 + 0) = Z_L.3) Therefore, the line presents the load directly: it behaves as a 1:1 transformer.4) Assertion (A) is true; Reason (R) correctly states the mechanism (impedance repetition every λ/2).


Verification / Alternative check:
On a Smith chart, a λ/2 rotation returns any impedance point to itself, confirming Z_in = Z_L at λ/2.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • B: R is the correct causal explanation, not incidental.
  • C: R is not wrong; it is the core principle.
  • D: A is not wrong; λ/2 repetition is standard theory.


Common Pitfalls:
Applying λ/2 behavior off-frequency (where electrical length ≠ λ/2); ignoring losses which slightly perturb equality in real lines.


Final Answer:
Both A and R are correct and R is correct explanation of A

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