Filter behavior using a tank: when a parallel resonant (tank) circuit is inserted in series with an output load resistor, what overall filter type does the network implement around the tank’s resonant frequency?

Electronics RLC Circuits and Resonance Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
  • A
    Band-stop
  • B
    Low-pass
  • C
    Bandpass
  • D
    High-pass
  • E
    All-pass

Answer

Correct Answer: Band-stop

Explanation

Introduction / Context:Resonant tanks (LC networks) are the building blocks of many passive filters. A “parallel tank” has a very high impedance at its resonant frequency and a much lower impedance away from resonance. The way it is placed with respect to the signal path determines whether it passes or rejects a band of frequencies.

Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The tank is a parallel LC tuned to a resonant frequency f0.
  • The tank is placed in series with the output load resistor.
  • Components are ideal; we reason qualitatively around f0.

Concept / Approach:A parallel LC exhibits maximum impedance at f0. If this high-impedance element is in series with the load, the signal path “blocks” at f0, producing a deep attenuation (a notch). Frequencies far from f0 see a comparatively low impedance through the series path and are less attenuated. This is the defining behavior of a band-stop (notch) filter with the stopband centered on f0.

Step-by-Step Solution:

1) Recognize the series placement of a high-Z element at f0. 2) At f0: Z_tank → large; series path attenuation is high; output drops. 3) Away from f0: Z_tank → small; series path allows signal to reach the load. 4) Therefore the network rejects a narrow band around f0 and passes frequencies on either side.

Verification / Alternative check:Plotting the transfer function magnitude shows a minimum (notch) at f0. Swapping the topology (placing the tank in shunt across the load) would produce a bandpass behavior, confirming the role of placement.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Low-pass / High-pass: these pass one side of the spectrum and reject the other, not a narrow band around f0.
  • Bandpass: would require low impedance at f0 in the series path (a series-resonant element), not a high impedance.
  • All-pass: preserves magnitude while shifting phase; not applicable here.

Common Pitfalls:Confusing parallel vs series resonance; assuming any tank in the path yields bandpass; forgetting that parallel tanks have high impedance at resonance while series tanks have low impedance at resonance.

Final Answer:Band-stop

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