Component terminology check: Is a rheostat considered a type of variable resistor used to adjust current or resistance?

Introduction / Context:
Rheostats and potentiometers are common adjustable resistive components. Understanding their definitions and typical connections avoids specification and wiring errors in labs and industry.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Rheostat: high-power adjustable resistor, commonly wired as a 2-terminal device.
• Potentiometer: 3-terminal resistor with a wiper; can be used as voltage divider or variable resistor.
• Goal: determine whether a rheostat counts as a variable resistor.

Concept / Approach:
A variable resistor is any resistor whose resistance can be adjusted. A potentiometer is a variable resistor with three terminals; when two terminals are used (one end and the wiper), it functions as a rheostat. Many rheostats are physically similar to potentiometers but designed for higher current/power. Therefore, a rheostat is indeed a type of variable resistor.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Handbooks specify wiring a potentiometer as a rheostat by tying one end to the wiper, leaving two terminals to vary series resistance in a circuit.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Fixed high-power resistor (option b) lacks adjustability.
• Inductor (option c) is a different passive component.
• “Only a voltage divider” (option d) ignores the common 2-terminal rheostat configuration.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming “potentiometer” and “rheostat” are interchangeable without noting connection method and power rating. Always check the application and required wattage.

Final Answer:
Correct — a rheostat is a variable resistor.