1000 Electronic Devices & Circuits MCQs

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The document discusses 1000 multiple choice questions on electronic devices and circuits covering over 100 topics. It provides details on how to use the questions for learning and preparation for exams and interviews.

The document mentions topics like semiconductor physics, diodes, amplifiers, feedback effects and more.

Some of the best reference books mentioned are Semiconductor Physics and Devices by D.A Neamen, Microelectronic Circuits by Sedra and Smith, Electronic Devices and Circuits by Theodore Bogart.

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1000 Electronic Devices & Circuits MCQs

Set by ltm3542

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[email protected]

source : https://www.sanfoundry.com

Our 1000+ Electronic Devices and Circuits questions and answers focuses on all areas of
Electronic Devices and Circuits subject covering 100+ topics in Electronic Devices and Circuits.
These topics are chosen from a collection of most authoritative and best reference books on
Electronic Devices and Circuits. One should spend 1 hour daily for 2-3 months to learn and
assimilate Electronic Devices and Circuits comprehensively. This way of systematic learning
will prepare anyone easily towards Electronic Devices and Circuits interviews, online tests,
examinations and certifications.

Highlights
– 1000+ Multiple Choice Questions & Answers in Electronic Devices and Circuits with
explanations
– Every MCQ set focuses on a specific topic in Electronic Devices and Circuits Subject

Who should Practice these Electronic Devices and Circuits Questions?


– Anyone wishing to sharpen their knowledge of Electronic Devices and Circuits Subject
– Anyone preparing for aptitude test in Electronic Devices and Circuits
– Anyone preparing for interviews (campus/off-campus interviews, walk-in interview and
company interviews)
– Anyone preparing for entrance examinations and other competitive examinations
– All – Experienced, Freshers and Students

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Here’s list of Questions & Answers on Electronic Devices and Circuits Subject covering
100+ topics:

1. Questions & Answers on EDC Overview

The section contains questions and answers on basics of electronic devices and circuits, methods,
frequency responses, time signals, network theorems, analysis of circuits, modulation,
transmission and coupled circuits.

Basic Concepts Noise


Method of Analysis Amplitde Modulation
Frequency Response – 1 Digital Transmission
Frequency Response – 2 Semicondunctor Physics
Two Port Network Network Theroms
Continous Time Signals Circuit analysis in S domain
Random Process Magneticaly coupled circuits

2. Questions on Conduction in Semiconductors

The section contains questions and answers on semiconductor electrons, holes and conductivity,
donor and acceptor impurities, fermi level semiconductor, charge densities, diffusion, carrier
lifetime, continuity equation and hall effect.

Electrons and Holes in Semiconductor


Conductivity of a Semiconductor Diffusion
Donor and Acceptor impurities Carrier Life Time
Charge Densities in a Semiconductor impurities The Continuity Equation
Fermi Level in a Semiconductor having The Hall Effect
Impurities

3. Questions & Answers on Semiconductor-Diode Characteristics

The section contains questions on pn junction qualitative theory, p-n junction diode, band
structure of open circuited p-n junction, components in p-n junction diode, volt ampere

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characteristics, diode resistance and capacitances, pn diode switching times, breakdown and
tunnel diodes, point contact diode, p-i-n diode and its characteristics.

Qualitative Theory of the p-n junction


The P-N Junction as a Diode
Diode Resistance
Band Structure of an Open-Circuited p-n
Diode Capacitances
junction
PN Diode Switching Times
The Current Components in a P-N junction
Breakdown Diodes
diode
Tunnel Diodes and its Characteristics
Quantitative Theory of the P-N Diode Currents
p-i-n Diode and its Characteristics
The Volt Ampere Characteristics
The Point Contact Diode
The Temperature Dependence of P-N
Characteristics

4. Questions on Diodes

The section contains questions on basics of diode, types of diodes which includes zener diode
and others, limiting and clamping circuits, rectifiers and characteristics of junction diode and
diode forward characteristic modelling.

Rectifiers
The Ideal Diode
Limiting and Clamping Circuits and Some
Modelling the Diode Forward Characteristic
Special Types of diodes
Zener Diode
Diode Circuits

5. Questions & Answers on Application of Diodes

The section contains questions and answers on half-wave and full-wave rectifier, bridge and
voltmeter rectifier, inductor and capacitor filters, l-section filters, clc filters and voltage
regulation.

Half-Wave Rectifier
L-Section Filter
Full-wave Rectifier
CLC Filter
Bridge Rectifier
Voltage Regulation Using Zener Diode
Inductor Filters
The Rectifier Voltmeter
Capacitor Filters

6. Questions on Transistor Characteristics

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The section contains questions on transistor amplifier, transistor construction, junction transistor,
common base, emitter and collector configuration, ce and cb characteristics, dc load lines,
transistor switch and switching times.

The Junction Transistor


The CE Characteristics
The Transistor as an Amplifier
The CB Characteristics
Transistor Construction
DC Load Lines
The Common Base Configuration
Transistor as a Switch
The Common Emitter Configuration
Transistor Switching Times
The Common Collector Configuration

7. Questions & Answers on Transistor Biasing and Thermal Stabilization

The section contains questions and answers on operating point, bias stability, collector-to-base
and collector-emitter bias, self bias, bias compensation, thermistor, thermal runway and stability.

Collector-to-Base Bias Bias Stability


Self-Bias Emitter Feedback Bias
Bias Compensation Collector-Emitter Feedback Bias
Thermal Runaway Stabilization against Variations in VBE and
Thermal Stability Beta for Self Bias Circuit
The Operating Point Thermistor and Sensistor Compensation

8. Questions on Signals and Amplifiers

The section contains questions and answers on basics of signals, amplifiers, sinusoidal steady
state analysis, amplifier circuit models and frequency response.

Signals
Frequency Response of Amplifier
Amplifiers
Sinusoidal Steady State Analysis
Circuit Models for Amplifier

9. Questions & Answers on Operational Amplifiers

The section contains questions and answers on ideal operational amplifiers, inverting and non-
inverting configuration, differentiators and differential amplifiers, operational amplifiers, finite
open loop gain effect, circuit performance bandwidth and large signal operations.

The Ideal Operational Amplifiers Integrators and Differentiators


The Inverting Configuration DC Imperfections in Operational Amplifiers
The Non Inverting Configuration Effect of Finite Open-Loop gain and Bandwidth

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Difference Amplifiers on Circuit Perfomance
Large Signal Operations on operational
Amplifiers

10. Questions on MOS Field Effect Transistors (MOSFETs)

The section contains questions and answers on basics of MOSFET, device structure, physical
and small signal operation of MOSFET, basics of MOSFET configurations and circuit biasing,
body effect and discrete MOSFET circuits.

MOSFETs Device Strucuture and Physical


Operation Basic MOSFET Amplifier Configurations
MOSFETs Current-Voltage Characterisitcs Biasing in MOS Amplifier Circuit
MOSFETs Circuits at DC Discrete-Circuit MOS Amplifiers
MOSFET in Amplfier Design The Body Effect
MOSFET in Small Signal Operation

11. Questions & Answers on Bipolar Junction Triodes (BJTs)

The section contains questions on basics of BJT, device structures and physical operations,
circuits, current-voltage properties, amplifier design, signal operations and circuit configuration
and biasing.

BJTs Device Strucutres and Physical


Small Signal Operations and Model
Operations
Basic BJT Amplifier Configuration
BJTs Current-Voltage Characteristics
Biasing in BJT Amplifier Circuits
BJT Circuits at DC
Spread Spectrum
BJT in Amplifier Design

12. Questions on Small-Signal Low-Frequency AC models of Transistors

The section contains questions on ac models and analysis, transistor amplifier, biasing
parameters, two port devices and hybrid model, transistor hybrid model, h-parameters and its
measurement, cb transistor physical model, hybrid model in ce, cb and cc, ac and dc analysis
problems, transistor circuit analysis and millers theorem.

The AC Analysis of a Small-Signal Low- Conversion Formulas for the Parameters of the
Frequency Common Emitter Transistor Three-Transistor Configurations
Biasing Parameters Analysis of Transistor Amplifier Circuit using
Problems on AC and DC Analysis h-parameters
Two-Port Devices and Hybrid Model Comparision of Transistor Amplifier

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Transistor Hybrid Model Linear Analysis of a Transistor Circuit
Determination of the h-parameters Physical Model of a CB Transistor
Measurement of h-parameters Approximate Hybrid model and its use in
CE,CB,CC
Millers Theorem

13. Questions & Answers on Field-Effect Transistors

The section contains questions and answers on junction field effect transistor, pinch off voltage,
insulated gate, fet small signal model, common source and drain amplifier, fet biasing, fet
amplifier and unijunction transistors.

The Junction Field-Effect Transistor The Common-Source Amplifier


The Pinch off Voltage Vp The Common-Drain Amplifier
The JFET Volt-Ampere Characteristics Biasing the FET
The FET Small-Signal Model A Generalized FET Amplifier
The Insulated-Gate FET(MOSFET) The Unijunction Transistors

14. Questions on Large Signal Amplifiers

The section contains questions on class a large signal amplifiers, second and higher order
harmonic distortion.

Class A Large Signal Amplifiers


Higher-Order Harmonic Distortion
Second Harmonic Distortion

15. Questions & Answers on Low Frequency Transistor Amplifier Circuit

The section contains questions and answers on cascading amplifiers, decibel, cc and cb
configurations, ce amplifier, emitter follower, high input resistance transistor circuit, cascode
transistor and amplifiers.

Cascading Transistor Amplifiers


N-Stage Cascading Amplifiers
CE Amplifier with an Emitter Resistance
The Decibel
The Emitter Follower
Simplified CE Hybrid Model
High Input Resistance Transistor Circuit
Simplified Calculations for the CC
The Cascode Transistor Configuration
Configuration
Difference Amplifiers
Simplified Calculations for the CB
Configuration

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16. Questions on High Frequency Transistor

The section contains questions on high frequency t model, hybrid pi models, alpha cutoff
frequency, ce short circuit current frequency response, resistive load and transistor amplifier
response.

The High Frequency T Model


The CB Short Circuit Current Frequency The Alpha Cutoff Frequency
Response The CE Short Circuit Current Frequency
The Hybrid PI CE Transistor Model Response
Hybrid PI Conductances In Low Frequency H Current Gain With Resistive Load
Parameters Transistor Amplifier Response, Taking Source
The CE Short Circuit Gain Obtained With The Resistance Into Account
Hybrid PI Model

17. Questions & Answers on Frequency Response

The section contains questions on low and high frequency responses on cs and ce amplifiers,
high frequency models of bjt and mosfet, millers theorem, high frequency response of source and
emitter followers, differential amplifiers, mos and bipolar cascode amplifiers, cd-cs, cc-ce, cd-ce,
cc-cb and cd-cg configurations, pole splitting, frequency and miller compensation.

High-Frequency Response of the MOS Cascode


Amplifier
High-Frequency Response of the Bipolar
Low-Frequency Response of the CS Amplifiers Cascode Amplifier
Low-Frequency Response of the CE Amplifiers High Frequency Response of the Source
High-Frequency Model of the BJT Followers
High-Frequency Model of the MOSFET High-Frequency Response of the Emitter
High-Frequency Response of the CS Amplifiers Followers
High-Frequency Response of the CE Amplifiers High Frequency Response of the Differential
The High Frequency Gain Function Amplifiers
Determining the 3-dB Frequency fH 9 The CD-CS, CC-CE and CD-CE
Approximate Determination of fH Configurations
Miller’s Theorm The CC-CB and CD-CG Configurations
High-Frequency Response of the CG High Frequency Response of Multistage
Amplfiers
Frequency Compensation
Miller Compensation and Pole Splitting

18. Questions on Differential and Multistage Amplifiers

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The section contains questions and answers on input bias, voltage, current, multistage and
differential amplifiers, feedback structure and negative feedback properties, transconductance
and transresistance amplifiers, a, b and ab output stages, feedback effects, power bjts, heat sinks
and variations in ab classification.

Input Bias and Offset Currents of the Bipolar


Differential Amplifier Effect of Feedback on the Amplifier Poles (The
Differential Amplifier with Active Load Nyquist Plot)
Multistage Amplifier Effect of Feedback on the Amplifier Poles
The General Feedback Structure Stability Study using Bode Plots
Properties of Negative Feedback Classification of Output Stages
Voltage Amplifiers Class A output Stage
Current Amplifiers Class B Output Stage
Tranconductance Amplifiers Calss AB Output Stage
Transresistance Amplifiers Biasing the Class AB Circuit
Feedback Voltage Amplifier (Series-Shunt) Power BJTs
Determining the Loop Gain Transistor case and Heat Sinks
The Transfer Function of the Feedback Variations on Class AB Configuration
Amplifier

1. Questions & Answers on EDC Overview

The section contains questions and answers on basics of electronic devices and circuits, methods,
frequency responses, time signals, network theorems, analysis of circuits, modulation,
transmission and coupled circuits.

Basic Concepts Noise


Method of Analysis Amplitde Modulation
Frequency Response – 1 Digital Transmission

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Frequency Response – 2 Semicondunctor Physics
Two Port Network Network Theroms
Continous Time Signals Circuit analysis in S domain
Random Process Magneticaly coupled circuits

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Basic Concepts”.

1. A solid copper sphere, 10 cm in diameter is deprived of 1020 electrons by a charging scheme.


The charge on the sphere is

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a) 160.2 C
b) -160.2 C
c) 16.02 C
d) -16.02 C
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: n 1020, Q = ne = e 1020 = 16.02 C.
Charge on sphere will be positive.

2. A lightning bolt carrying 15,000 A lasts for 100 s. If the lightning strikes an airplane flying at
2 km, the charge deposited on the plane is
a) 13.33 C
b) 75 C
c) 1500 C
d) 1.5 C
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: dQ = i dt = 15000 x 100µ = 1.5 C.

3. If 120 C of charge passes through an electric conductor in 60 sec, the current in the conductor
is
a) 0.5 A
b) 2 A
c) 3.33 mA
d) 0.3 mA
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: i = dQ/dt = 120/60 = 2A.

4. The energy required to move 120 coulomb through


3 V is
a) 25 mJ
b) 360 J
c) 40 J
d) 2.78 mJ
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: W = Qv = 360 J.

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5. Consider the circuit graph shown in figure below. Each branch of circuit graph represent a
circuit element. The value of voltage V1 is

a) 30 V
b) 25 V
c) 20 V
d) 15 V
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: 100 = 65 + V2 => V2 = 35 V
V3 – 30 = V2 => V3 = 65 V
105 – V3 + V4 – 65 = 0 => V4 = 25 V
V4 + 15 – 55 + V1 = 0 => V1 = 15 V.

6. Req = ?

a) 11.86 ohm
b) 10 ohm
c) 25 ohm
d) 11.18 ohm
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Req – 5 = 10(Req + 5)/(10 + 5 +Req). Solving for Req we have Req = 11.18 ohm.

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7. In the circuit the dependent source

a) supplies 16 W
b) absorbs 16 W
c) supplies 32 W
d) absorbs 32 W
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: P = VIx = 2Ix Ix = 2 x 16 or 32 watt (absorb).

8. Twelve 6 resistor are used as edge to form a cube. The resistance between two diagonally
opposite corner of the cube is (in ohm)
a) 5/6
b) 6/5
c) 5
d) 6
View Answer

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Answer: c
Explanation:

9. The energy required to charge a 10 µF capacitor to 100 V is


a) 0.1 J
b) 0.05 J
c) 5 x 10(-9) J
d) 10 x 10(-9) J
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Energy provided is equal to 0.5 CVxV.

10. A capacitor is charged by a constant current of 2 mA and results in a voltage increase of 12 V


in a 10 sec

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interval. The value of capacitance is
a) 0.75 mF
b) 1.33 mF
c) 0.6 mF
d) 1.67 mF
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Voltage gain = 1/C x i(t2 – t1), where t2 – t1 = 10s. Hence C = 1.67 mF.

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Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Method of Analysis”.

1. V1 = ?

a) 0.4 Vg
b) 1.5 Vg
c) 0.67 Vg
d) 2.5 Vg
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Apply nodal analysis, V1 = Vs(4/6 + 1/3)/(1/6 + 1/3 + 1/6) = 1.5 Vs.

2. Va = ?

a) -11 V

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b) 11 V
c) 3 V
d) -3 V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Va = 2(3+1) + 3 = 11 V.

3. V1 = ?

a) 120 V
b) -120 V
c) 90 V
d) -90 V
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: -V1/60 – V1/60 + 6 = 9 or V1 = -90 V.

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4. Va = ?

a) 4.33 V
b) 4.09 V
c) 8.67 V
d) 8.18 V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: (Va – 10)/4 + Va/2 = 4 or Va = 8.67 V.

5. V2 = ?

a) 0.5 V
b) 1.0 V
c) 1.5 V
d) 2.0 V
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: V2/20 + V2+10/30 = 0.5 V or V2 = 2.0 V.

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6. Ib = ?

a) 0.6 A
b) 0.5 A
c) 0.4 A
d) 0.3 A
View Answer

Answer: b

Explanation: .

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7. i1 = ?

a) 0.6 A
b) 2.1 A
c) 1.7 A
d) 1.1 A
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: i1 = 10/36+64 + 0.5 => i1 = 0.6 A.

8. i1 = ?

a) 1 mA
b) 1.5 mA
c) 2 mA
d) 2.5 mA
View Answer

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Answer: b
Explanation: 75 = 90k (i1 – 7.5m) => 150 = 100ki1 => i = 1.5 mA.

9. i1 = ?

a) 4 A
b) 3 A
c) 6 A
d) 5 A
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: 3 – 5i1 – 12 => i1 = 3A.

10. i1 = ?

a) 20 mA
b) 15 mA
c) 10 mA
d) 5 mA
View Answer

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Answer: b
Explanation: 45 = 2ki1 + 500(i1 + 15m) => i1 = 15 mA.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Frequency Response – 1”.

(Q.1-Q.3) A parallel resonant circuit has a resistance of 2k ohm and half power frequencies of 86
kHz and 90 kHz.
1. The value of capacitor is
a) 6 µF
b) 20 nF
c) 2 nF
d) 60 µF
View Answer

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Answer: b
Explanation: BW = 2p(90-86)k = 1/RC or C = 19.89 nF.

2. The value of inductor is


a) 4.3 mH
b) 43 mH
c) 0.16 mH
d) 1.6 mH
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: w = (86 + 90)k/2 = 88 = (1/LC)(0.5) or L = 0.16 mH.

3. The quality factor is


a) 22
b) 100
c) 48
d) 200
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Q = w/BW = 176pK/8pk = 22.

(Q.4-Q.5) A parallel resonant circuit has a midband admittance of 25 X 10(-3) S, quality factor of
80 and a resonant frequency of 200 krad s.

4. The value of R (in ohm) is


a) 40
b) 56.57
c) 80
d) 28.28
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: At mid-band frequency Y = 1/R or R = 1000/25 or 40 ohm.

5. The value of C is
a) 2 µF
b) 28.1 µF
c) 10 µF
d) 14.14 µF
View Answer

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Answer: c
Explanation: Q = wRC or C = 80/(200 x 1000 x 40) or 10 µF.

6. A parallel RLC circuit has R 1 k and C 1 F. The quality factor at resonance is 200. The value
of inductor is
a) 35.4 H
b) 25 H
c) 17.7 H
d) 50 H
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Use Q = R (L/C)0.5.

7. A parallel circuit has R = 1k ohm , C = 50 µF and L = 10mH. The quality factor at resonance
is
a) 100
b) 90.86
c) 70.7
d) None of the above
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Use Q = R (L/C)0.5.

8. A series resonant circuit has L = 1 mH and C = 10 F. The required R (in ohm) for the BW =
15 9 . Hz is
a) 0.1
b) 0.2
c) 0.0159
d) 500
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Use BW = R/L.

9. For the RLC parallel resonant circuit when R = 8k, L = 40 mH and C = 0.25 F, the quality
factor
Q is
a) 40
b) 20
c) 30

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d) 10
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: use Q = R (C/L)0.5.

10. A series resonant circuit has an inductor L = 10 mH. The resonant frequency w = 10^6 rad/s
and bandwidth is BW = 103 rad/s. The value of R and C will be
a) 100 F, 10 ohm
b) 100 pF, 10 ohm
c) 100 pF, 10 Mega-ohm
d) 100 µF, 10 Meg-ohm
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Use wxw = 1/LC and BW = R/L.

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Questions and Answers focuses on “Frequency Response – 2”.

1. The maximum voltage across capacitor would be

a) 3200 V
b) 3 V
c) 3 V
d) 1600 V
View Answer

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Answer: a

Explanation:

2. Find the resonnant frequency for the circuit.

a) 346 kHz
b) 55 kHz
c) 196 kHz
d) 286 kHz
View Answer

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Answer: b

Explanation:

3. Determine the resonant frequency of the circuit.

a) 12 9 . kHz
b) 12.9 MHz
c) 2.05 MHz
d) 2.05 kHz
View Answer

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Answer: c

Explanation:

4. The value of C and A for the given network function is

a) 10 µF, 6
b) 5 µF, 10
c) 5 µF, 6
d) 10 µF, 10
View Answer

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Answer: c

Explanation:

5. H(w) = Vo/Vi = ?

a) 0.6 / jw(1 + 0.2jw)


b) 0.6 / jw(5 + jw)
c) 3 / jw(1 + jw)
d) 3 / jw(20 + 4jw)
View Answer

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Answer: a

Explanation:

6. H(w) = Vo/Vi = ?

a) 1 / jw(5 + j20w)
b) 1 / jw(5 + j4w)
c) 1 / jw(5 + j30w)
d) 5 / jw(5 + j6w)
View Answer

Answer: a

Explanation:

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7. The value of input frequency is required to cause a gain equal to 1.5. The value is

a) 20 rad/s
b) 20 Hz
c) 10 rad/s
d) No such value exists
View Answer

Answer: d

Explanation:

8. In the circuit shown phase shift equal to 45 degrees and is required at frequency w = 20 rad/s.
The value of R (in kilo-ohm) is

a) 200
b) 150

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c) 100
d) 50
View Answer

Answer: d

Explanation:

9. For the circuit shown the input frequency is adjusted until the gain is equal to 0.6. The value of
the frequency is

a) 20 rad/s
b) 20 Hz
c) 40 rad/s
d) 40 Hz
View Answer

34
Answer: a

Explanation:

10. The bode diagram for the Vo/Vs for the given circuit is

a)

b)

35
c)

d)
View Answer

Answer: d

Explanation:

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Two Port Network”.

36
1. [T] = ?

View Answer

37
Answer: d

Explanation:

2. [h] = ?

38
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: V2 = 2I2 + 4I1 and
I1 = 0.5I2 + 0.5(V1 – 2V2) => V1 = 4I1 + 1.5V2.

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3. [y] = ?

View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: I1 = V1(Ya + Yab) – V2(Yab) and I2 = -V1(Yab) + V2(Yb + Yab).

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4.The [y] parameter of a two port network is given by

View Answer

41
Answer: b
Explanation: The new parameter will be the sum of the previous network and the resistor
parameter.

5. The [y] parameter for a 2-port network and the network itself are given below.

The value of Vo/vs is _______


a) 3/32
b) 1/16
c) 2/33
d) 1/17
View Answer

42
Answer: a

Explanation:

6. [y] = ?

43
View Answer

44
Answer: b

Explanation:

7. A 2-port resistive network satisfy the condition A = D = 3/2B = 4/3C. The z11 of the network
is
a) 4/3
b) 3/4
c) 2/3
d) 3/2
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: z11 = A/C = 4/3.

8. A 2-port network is driven by a source Vs =100 V in series with 5 ohm, and terminated in a 25
ohm resistor. The impedance parameters are

The Thevenin equivalent circuit presented to the 25 ohm resistor is


a) 80 V, 2.8 ohm

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b) 160 V, 6.8 ohm
c) 100 V, 2.4 ohm
d) 120 V, 6.4 ohm
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: 100 = 25I1 + 2I2, V2 = 40I1 + 10I2
Also V2 = 160I1 + 6.8I2
using above equations we get, Vth = 160 V and Rth = 6.8 ohm.

9. Find V1 and V2.

a) -68.6 V, 114.3 V
b) 68.6 V, -114.3 V
c) 114.3 V, -68.6 V
d) -114.3 V, 68.6 V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: 800 = 10V1 – V2 and 3V2 = 5V1 = 0.

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Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Continous Time Signals”.

(Q.1-Q.2) The number of cars arriving at ICICI bank drive-in window during 10-min period is
Poisson random variable X with b=2.

1. The probability that more than 3 cars will arrive during any 10 min period is
a) 0.249
b) 0.143
c) 0.346
d) 0.543
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Evaluate 1 – P(x = 0) – P(x = 1) – P(x = 2) – P(x = 3).

2. The probability that no car will arrive is


a) 0.516
b) 0.459
c) 0.246
d) 0.135
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Evaluate P(x = 0).

(Q.3-Q.5) Delhi averages three murder per week and their occurrences follow a Poisson
distribution.

3. The probability that there will be five or more murder in a given week is
a) 0.1847
b) 0.2461
c) 0.3927

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d) 0.4167
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: P(5 or more) = 1 – P(0) – P(1) – P(2) – P(3) – P(4) = 0.1847.

4. On the average, how many weeks a year can Delhi expect to have no murders ?
a) 1.4
b) 1.9
c) 2.6
d) 3.4
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: P(0) = 0.0498. Hence average number of weeks per year with no murder is 52 x
P(0) = 2.5889 week.

5. How many weeds per year (average) can the Delhi expect the number of murders per week to
equal or exceed the average number per week?
a) 15
b) 20
c) 25
d) 30
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: P(3 or more) = 1 – P(0) – P (1) – P(2) = 0.5768. Therefore average number of
weeks per year = 52 x 0.5768 or 29.994 weeks.

(Q.6-Q.8) The random variable X is defined by the density f(x) = 0.5u(x) e(0.5x)

6. The expect value of g(x) = X3 is


a) 48
b) 192
c) 36
d) 72
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Solve E[g(x)] = E[X3].

48
7. The mean of the random variable x is
a) 1/4
b) 1/6
c) 1/3
d) 1/5
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Solve integral (x f(x) dx) from negative infinity to x.

8. The variance of the random variable x is


a) 1/10
b) 3/80
c) 5/16
d) 3/16
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Variance is given by E[X230] – 1/16.

(Q.9-Q.10) A joint sample space for two random variable X and Y has four elements (1,1), (2,2),
(3,3) and (4,4). Probabilities of these elements are 0.1, 0.35, 0.05 and 0.5 respectively.

9. The probability of the event{X 2.5, Y 6} is


a) 0.45
b) 0.50
c) 0.55
d) 0.60
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The required answer is given by Fxy(2.5, 6.0) = 0.1 + 0.35 = 0.45.

10. The probability of the event that X is less than three is


a) 0.45
b) 0.50
c) 0.55
d) 0.60
View Answer

49
Answer: b
Explanation: The required answer is given by Fx(3.0) = Fxy(3.0, infinity) = 0.1 + 0.35 + 0.05 =
0.50.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Random Process”.

1. For random process X = 6 and Rxx (t, t+t) = 36 + 25 exp(|t|). Consider following statements:
(i) X(t) is first order stationary.
(ii) X(t) has total average power of 36 W.
(iii) X(t) is a wide sense stationary.
(iv) X(t) has a periodic component.
Which of the following is true?
a) 1, 2, and 4
b) 2, 3, and 4
c) 2 and 3
d) only 3
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: X Constant and Rxx() is not a function of t, so X(t) is a wide sense stationary. So (i)
is false & (iii) is true. Pxx = Rxx(0) 36+25 = 61. Thus (ii) is false if X(t) has a periodic
component, then RXX(t) will have a periodic component with the same period. Thus (iv) is false.

50
2. White noise with power density No/2 = 6 microW/Hz is applied to an ideal filter of gain 1 and
bandwidth W rad/s. If the output’s average noise power is 15 watts, the bandwidth W is
a) 2.5 x 10 (-6)
b) 2.5p x 10 (-6)
c) 5 x 10 (-6)
d) p5 x 10 (-6)
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Pyy = 1/2p Integral(?xx(w) |H(w)|^2 dw ) from plus infinity to minus infinity.
Hence solve for W.

(Q.3-Q.4) The two-level semi-random binary process is defined by X(t) A or -A where (n 1)T < t
< nt and the levels A and -A occur with equal probability. T is a positive constant and n = 0, ±1,
±2.

3. The mean value E[X(t)] is


a) 1/2
b) 1/4
c) 1
d) 0
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: E[X(t)] = A P(A) – (-A)P(-A) which is zero.

4. The auto correlation Rxx(t1 = 0.5T, t2 = 0.7T) will be


a) 1
b) 0
c) A x A
d) 0.5 (A x A)
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Here Rxx is AxA if both t1 and t2 are different and zero if they are same. Hence the
answer is AxA.

5. Air craft of Jet Airways at Ahmedabad airport arrive according to a Poisson process at a rate
of 12 per hour. All aircraft are handled by one air traffic controller. If the controller takes a 2 –
minute coffee break, what is the probability that he will miss one or more arriving aircraft?
a) 0.33
b) 0.44

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c) 0.55
d) 0.66
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: P (miss/or more aircraft) = 1 – P(miss 0) = 1 – P(0 arrive).

6. A stationary random process X(t) is applied to the input of a system for which h(t) = u(t) t2 e(-
8t)
. If E[X(t)] = 2, the mean value of the system’s response Y(t) is
a) 1/128
b) 1/64
c) 3/128
d) 1/32
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The mean value of Y(t) is integral of h(t)dt over negative infinity to positive
infinity which gives the value equal to 3/128.

7. A random process is defined by X(t) + A where A is continuous random variable uniformly


distributed on
(0,1). The auto correlation function and mean of the process is
a) 1/2 & 1/3
b) 1/3 & 1/2
c) 1 & 1/2
d) 1/2 & 1
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: E[X(t)X(t+t)] = 1/3 and E[X(t)] = 1/2 respectively.

(Q.8-Q.9) The auto correlation function of a stationary ergodic random process is shown below.

52
8. The mean value E[X(t)] is
a) 50
b) sqrt(50)
c) 20
d) sqrt(20)
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Lim |t| tends to infinity, Rxx(t) = 20 = X2. hence X is sqrt(20).

9. The E[X2(t)] is
a) 10
b) sqrt(10)
c) 50
d) sqrt(50)
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Rxx(0) = X2 = 50.

10. The variance is


a) 20
b) 50
c) 70
d) 30
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Here X = 0, y = 0, Rxx(0) = 5, Ryy(0) = 10. The only value that satisfies all the
given conditions is 30.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Noise”.

1. In a receiver the input signal is 100 V, while the internal noise at the input is 10 V. With
amplification the output signal is 2 V, while the output noise is 0.4 V. The noise figure of

53
receiver is
a) 2
b) 0.5
c) 0.2
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: NF = (100/10)/(2/0.4) or 2.

2. A receiver is operated at a temperature of 300 K. The transistor used in the receiver have an
average output resistance of 1 k. The Johnson noise voltage for a receiver with a bandwidth of
200 kHz is
a) 1.8 µV
b) 8.4 µV
c) 4.3 µV
d) 12.6 µV
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: v2 = 4kBTR where symbols have their usual meanings, hence v = 1.8 µV.

3. A resistor R 1 k is maintained at 17C. The rms noise voltage generated in a bandwidth of 10


kHz is
a) 16 x 10(-14) V
b) 0.4 µV
c) 4 µV
d) 16 x 10(-18) V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: v2 = 4kBTR where symbols have their usual meanings, hence v = 0.4 µV.

4. A mixer stage has a noise figure of 20 dB. This mixer stage is preceded by an amplifier which
has a noise figure of 9 dB and an available power gain of 15 dB. The overall noise figure referred
to the input is
a) 11.07
b) 18.23
c) 56.43
d) 97.38
View Answer

54
Answer: a
Explanation: The required answer is 7.94 + (100-1)/31.62 = 11.07.

5. A system has three stage cascaded amplifier each stage having a power gain of 10 dB and
noise figure of 6 dB. the overall noise figure is
a) 1.38
b) 6.8
c) 4.33
d) 10.43
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The gain at each stage is 10db, hence the required answer is 4 + (4-1)/10 + (4-
1)/100 or 4.33.

(Q.6-Q.8) An amplifier when used with a source of average noise temperature 60 K, has an
average operating noise figure of 5.

6. The Te is
a) 70 K
b) 110 K
c) 149 K
d) 240 K
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The required answer is 60 (5-1) or 240K.

7. If the amplifier is sold to engineering public, the noise figure that would be quoted in a catalog
is
a) 0.46
b) 0.94
c) 1.83
d) 2.93
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The required answer is 1 + (240/290).

8. What average operating noise figure results when the amplifier is used with an antenna of
temperature 30 K?
a) 9.54 db

55
b) 10.96 db
c) 11.23 db
d) 12.96 db
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The required answer is 1 + 240/30 = 9 or 9.54 db.

9. What is the maximum average effective input noise temperature that an amplifier can have if
its average standard noise figure is to not exceed 1.7?
a) 203 K
b) 215 K
c) 235 K
d) 255 K
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The required answer is 290 x (1.7-1) or 203K.

10. If a matched attenuator with a loss of 3.2 dB is placed between the source and the amplifier’s
input, what is the operating spot noise figure of the attenuator amplifier cascade if the
attenuator’s physical temperature is 290 K?
a) 9 db
b) 11.3 db
c) 10.4 db
d) 13.3 db
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Here Te is 290[(20.89-1) + (2.089)(7.98-1)] or 4544.4K. Hence the required answer
is 1 + 4544.4/290 = 212 or 13.3 db.

56
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Amplitde Modulation”.

(Q.1-Q.3) An AM signal is represented by x(t) = (20 + 4sin(500πt)) cos(2πt x 105)V.

1. The modulation index is


a) 20
b) 4
c) 0.2
d) 10
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: 20 + 4sin(500πt) = 20(1 + 0.2sin(500πt)), hence the modulation index is 0.2.

2. Total signal power is


a) 208 W
b) 204 W
c) 408 W
d) 416 W
View Answer

Answer: b
Explantion: Pc = 20×20/2 or 200 W. Pt = Pc(1 + 0.2×0.2/4) or 204 W.

3. Total sideband power is


a) 4 W
b) 8 W
c) 16 W
d) 2 W
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Pt – Pc = 204 – 200 = 4W.
57
4. An AM broadcast station operates at its maximum allowed total output of 50 kW with 80%
modulation. The power in the intelligence part is
a) 12.12 kW
b) 31.12 kW
c) 6.42 kW
d) none of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Pi = Pt – Pc = 50 – 37.88 kW or 12.12 kW.

5. The aerial current of an AM transmitter is 18 A when unmodulated but increases to 20 A when


modulated.The modulation index is
a) 0.68
b) 0.73
c) 0.89
d) 0.95
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: 400/326 = 1 + (α2)/2, therefore α is 0.68.

6. A modulating signal is amplified by a 80% efficiency amplifier before being combined with a
20 kW carrier to generate an AM signal. The required DC input power to the amplifier, for the
system to operate at 100% modulation, would be
a) 5 kW
b) 8.46 kW
c) 12.5 kW
d) 6.25 kW
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Pi = Pt -Pc = 30 – 20 = 10 kW. DC input = 10/0.8 or 12.5 kW.

7. A 2 MHz carrier is amplitude modulated by a 500 Hz modulating signal to a depth of 70%. If


the unmodulated carrier power is 2 kW, the power of the modulated signal is
a) 2.23 kW
b) 2.36 Kw
c) 1.18 kW
d) 1.26 kW
View Answer

58
Answer: a
Explanation:Pt = Pc (1 + 0.49/2).

8. A carrier is simultaneously modulated by two sine waves with modulation indices of 0.4 and
0.3. The resultant modulation index will be
a) 1.0
b) 0.7
c) 0.5
d) 0.35
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: α2 = 0.32 + 0.42 = 0.52 or α = 0.5.

9. In a DSB-SC system with 100% modulation, the power saving is


a) 100%
b) 55%
c) 75%
d) 100%
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: This is so because the power is suppressed by two thirds of the total. hence the
power saving is 66%.

10. A 10 kW carrier is sinusoidally modulated by two carriers corresponding to a modulation


index of 30% and 40% respectively. The total radiated power is
a) 11.25 kW
b) 12.5 kW
c) 15 kW
d) 17 kW
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The required answer is 1 (1 + 0.42 + 0.32) or 11.25 kW.

59
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Digital Transmission”.

1. Assuming that the signal is quantized to satisfy the condition of previous question and
assuming the approximate bandwidth of the signal is W. The minimum required bandwidth for
transmission of a binary PCM signal based on this quantization scheme will be
a) 5 W
b) 10 W
c) 20 W
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The minimum bandwidth requirement for transmission of a binary PCM signal is
BW= vW. Since v 10, we have BW = 10 W.

2. In PCM system, if the quantization levels are increased form 2 to 8, the relative bandwidth
requirement will
a) Remain same
b) Be doubled
c) Be tripled
d) Become four times
View Answer

60
Answer: c
Explanation: If L = 2, then 2 = 2n or n = 1 ND. If L = 8, then 8 = 2n or n = 3. So relative
bandwidth will be tripled.

3. A speech signal occupying the bandwidth of 300 Hz to 3 kHz is converted into PCM format
for use in digital communication. If the sampling frequency is8 kHz and each sample is
quantized into 256 levels, then the output bit the rate will be
a) 3 kb/s
b) 8 kb/s
c) 64 kb/s
d) 256 kb/s
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: fs = 8 kHz, 2n = 256 or n = 8. Bit Rate = 8 x 8k = 64 kb/s.

4. Analog data having highest harmonic at 30 kHz generated by a sensor has been digitized using
6 level PCM. What will be the rate of digital signal generated?
a) 120 kbps
b) 200 kbps
c) 240 kbps
d) 180 kbps
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Nyquist Rate = 2 x 30k = 60 kHz 2n should be greater than or equal to 6. Thus n 3,
Bit Rate = 60×3 = 18 kHz.

5. Four voice signals. each limited to 4 kHz and sampled at Nyquist rate are converted into
binary PCM signal using 256 quantization levels. The bit transmission rate for the time-division
multiplexed signal will be
a) 8 kbps
b) 64 kbps
c) 256 kbps
d) 512 kbps
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Nyquist Rate 2 x 4k = 8 kHz
Total sample 4 x 8 = 32 k sample/sec
256 = 28, so that 8 bits are required
Bit Rate 32k x 8 = 256 kbps.

61
6. A TDM link has 20 signal channels and each channel is sampled 8000 times/sec. Each sample
is represented by seven binary bits and contains an additional bit for synchronization. The total
bit rate for the TDM link is
a) 1180 K bits/sec
b) 1280 K bits/sec
c) 1180 M bits/sec
d) 1280 M bits/sec
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Total sample 8000 x 20 = 160 k sample/sec
Bit for each sample 7 + 1 = 8
Bit Rate = 160k x 8 = 1280 kilobits/sec.

7. Four signals each band limited to 5 kHz are sampled at twice the Nyquist rate. The resulting
PAM samples are transmitted over a single channel after time division multiplexing. The
theoretical minimum transmissions bandwidth of the channel should be equal to
a) 5 kHz
b) 20 kHz
c) 40 kHz
d) 80 kHz
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: fm = 5 kHz, Nyquist Rate 2 x 5 = 10 kHz Since signal are sampled at twice the
Nyquist rate so sampling rate 2 x 10 = 20 kHz. Total transmission bandwidth 4 x 20 = 80 kHz.

8. A sinusoidal massage signal m(t) is transmitted by binary PCM without compression. If the
signal to-quantization-noise ratio is required to be at least 48 dB, the minimum number of bits
per sample will be
a) 8
b) 10
c) 12
d) 14
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: 3(L2)/2 = 48 db or L = 205.09. Since L is power of 2, so we select L = 256 Hence
256 = 28, So 8 bits per sample is required.

9. A speech signal has a total duration of 20 sec. It is sampled at the rate of 8 kHz and then PCM
encoded. The signal-to-quantization noise ratio is required to be 40 dB. The minimum storage

62
capacity needed to accommodate this signal is
a) 1.12 KBytes
b) 140 KBytes
c) 168 KBytes
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: (SNR)q = 1.76 + 6.02(n) = 40 dB, n = 6.35
We take the n = 7.
Capacity = 20 x 8k x 7 = 1.12 Mbits = 140 Kbytes.

10. A linear delta modulator is designed to operate on speech signals limited to 3.4 kHz. The
sampling rate is 10 time the Nyquist rate of the speech signal. The step size is 100 m V. The
modulator is tested with a this test signal required to avoid slope overload is
a) 2.04 V
b) 1.08 V
c) 4.08 V
d) 2.16 V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Amax = (0.1 x 68k)/(2000p) or 1.08V.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Semiconductor Physics”.

In the problems assume the parameter given in following table. Use the temperature T= 300 K
unless otherwise stated.

63
1. In germanium semiconductor material at T 400 K the intrinsic concentration is (x 10^14 per
cc)
a) 26.8
b) 18.4
c) 8.5
d) 3.6
View Answer

Answer: c

Explanation:

2. The intrinsic carrier concentration in silicon is to be no greater than ni = 1 x 10^12 cc. The
maximum temperature allowed for the silicon is ( Eg = 1.12 eV)
a) 300 K

64
b) 360 K
c) 382 K
d) 364 K
View Answer

Answer: c

Explanation:

3. Two semiconductor material have exactly the same properties except that material A has a
bandgap of 1.0
eV and material B has a bandgap energy of 1.2 eV. The ratio of intrinsic concentration of
material A to that of
material B is
a) 2016
b) 47.5
c) 58.23
d) 1048
View Answer

Answer: b

Explanation:

4. In silicon at T = 300 K the thermal-equilibrium concentration of electron is n0 = 5 x 10^4 cc.


The hole concentration is
a) 4.5 x 1015 cc
b) 4.5 x 1015 m3
c) 0.3 x 10-6 cc
d) 0.3 x 10-6 m3
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: ni x ni = no x po.

5. In silicon at T = 300 K if the Fermi energy is 0.22 eV above the valence band energy, the
value of p0 is
a) 2 x 1015 cm3

65
b) 1015 cm3
c) 3 x 1015 cm3
d) 4 x 1015 cm3
View Answer

Answer: a

Explanation:

6. The thermal-equilibrium concentration of hole p0 in silicon at T = 300 K is 1015 cm3. The


value of n0 is
a) 3.8 x 108 cm3
b) 4.4 x 104 cm3
c) 2.6 x 104 cm3
d) 4.3 x 108 cm3
View Answer

Answer: b

Explanation:

66
7. In germanium semiconductor at T 300 K, the acceptor concentrations is Na 1013 cm3 and
donor concentration is Nd 0. The thermal equilibrium concentration p0 is
a) 2.97 x 109 cm3
b) 2.68 x 1012 cm3
c) 2.95 x 1013 cm3
d) 2.4 cm3
View Answer

Answer: c

Explanation:

8. A silicon sample doped n type at 10^18 cm3 have a resistance of 10 ohm. The sample has an
area of 10^(-6) cm2 and a length of 10 µm . The doping efficiency of the sample is (µn = 800
cm2/V-s )
a) 43.2%
b) 78.1%
c) 96.3%
d) 54.3%
View Answer

Answer: b

Explanation:

9. Six volts is applied across a 2 cm long semiconductor bar. The average drift velocity is 104
cms. The electron mobility is
a) 4396 cm2/V-s 2
b) 3 x 104 cm2/V-s
c) 6 x 104 cm2V-s

67
d) 3333 cm2/V-s
View Answer

Answer: d

Explanation:

10. A particular intrinsic semiconductor has a resistivity of 50 (ohm-cm) at T = 300 K and 5


(ohm-cm) at T = 330 K. If change in mobility with temperature is neglected, the bandgap energy
of the semiconductor is
a) 1.9 eV
b) 1.3 eV
c) 2.6 eV
d) 0.64 eV
View Answer

Answer: b

Explanation:

68
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Network Theroms”.

Circuit for Q.1-Q.2

1. Vth = ?
a) 1 V
b) 2 V
c) 3 V
d) 4 V
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Vth = (6)(6)/(6 + 3) or 4 V.

2. Rth = ? (in ohm)


a) 2

69
b) 3
c) 4
d) 5
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Rth = (3||6) + 2 or 4 ohm.

3. A battery has a short-circuit current of 30 A and an open circuit voltage of 24 V. If the battery
is connected to an electric bulb of resistance 2 ohm-1, the power dissipated by the bulb is
a) 80 W
b) 1800 W
c) 112.5 W
d) 228 W
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: r = Voc/Isc = 1.2 ohm
Power used by bulb = (24 x 24) x 2/(1.2 + 2) x (1.2 + 2) or 11.5 Watt.

Circuit for Q.4-Q-5

4. In = ?
a) 1.5 A
b) 3 A
c) 6 A
d) 10 A
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: V1 = (15/2)/(1/4 + 1/2 + 1/2)
In = Isc = V1/2 = 3 A.

70
5. Rn = ? (in ohm)
a) 10/3
b) 4
c) 6
d) 10
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Rn = (2||4) + 2.

Circuit for (Q.6-Q.7)

6. Vth = ?
a) -2 V
b) -1 V
c) 1 v
d) 2 V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Vth = (2)(3)(1)/3+3 = 1V.

7. Rth = ? (in ohm)


a) 5/6
b) 6/5
c) 5/3
d) 3/5
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Rth = 1||5 or 5/6 ohm.

71
8. The equivalent to the given circuit is

72
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: After killing all source equivalent resistance is R. Open circuit voltage is v1.

9. V1 = ?

a) 6 V
b) 7 V
c) 8 V
d) 10 V
View Answer

73
Answer: a

Explanation:

10. i1 = ?

a) 3 A
b) 0.75 mA
c) 2 mA
d) 1.75 mA
View Answer

74
Answer: b

Explanation:

75
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Circuit analysis in S domain”.

1. The network function (s2 + 4s)/(s + 1)(s + 2)(s + 3) represents


a) RC impedance
b) RL impedance
c) LC impedance
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Poles and zero does not interlace on negative real axis so it is not a immittance
function.

2. The network function (3s2 + 8s)/(s + 1)(s + 3) represents


a) RC impedance
b) RL impedance
c) LC impedance
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The singularity nearest to origin is a zero. So it may be RL impedance or RC
admittance function. Because of (D) option it is required to check that it is a valid RC admittance
function. The poles and zeros interlace along the negative real axis. The residue of Yrc(s)/s is
positive.

3. The network function (s + 1)(s + 4)/s(s + 2)(s + 5) represents


a) RC impedance
b) RL impedance
c) LC impedance
d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The singularity nearest to origin is a pole. So it may be RC impedance or RL
admittance function.

76
4. The network function s^2 + 10s + 24/s2 + 8s + 15 represents
a) RC impedance
b) RL impedance
c) LC impedance
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The singularity is near to origin is pole. So it may be RC impedance or RL
admittance function.

5. A valid immittance function is


a) (s + 4)(s + 8)/(s + 2)(s – 5)
b) s(s + 1)/(s + 2)(s + 5)
c) s(s + 2)(s + 3)/(s + 1)(s + 4)
d) s(s + 2)(s + 6)/(s + 1)(s + 4)
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation:
a) pole lie on positive real axis
b) poles and zero does not interlace on axis.
c) poles and zero does not interlace on axis.
d) is a valid immittance function.

6. The network function (s2 + 8s +15)/(s2 + 6s + 8) is


a) RL admittance
b) RC admittance
c) LC admittance
d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The singularity nearest to origin is a pole. So it may be a RL admittance or RC
impedance function.

7. The voltage response of a network to a unit step input is Vo(s) = 10/s(s2 + 8s + 16). The
response is
a) under damped
b) over damped
c) critically damped

77
d) can’t be determined
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The characteristic equation has real and repeated roots (-4, -4). Hence it is critically
damped.

8. The current response of a network to a unit step input is Io(s) = 10(s + 2)/s(s2 + 11s + 30). The
response is
a) Under damped
b) Over damped
c) Critically damped
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The roots are real and unequal (-6, -5) for the characteristic equation. Hence it is
over damped.

Circuit for q.9-Q.10

9. The ratio of the transfer function Io/Is is


a) s(s + 4)/(s2 + 3s + 4)
b) s(s + 4)/(s + 1)(s + 3)
c) (s2 + 3s + 4)/s(s + 4)
d) (s + 1)(s + 3)/s(s + 4)
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Io/Is = (s + 4)/ (s + 4 + 3/s) = s(s + 4)/(s + 1)(s + 3).

10. The response is


a) Over damped

78
b) Under damped
c) Critically damped
d) can’t be determined
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The characteristic roots are real and unequal (-1, -3), therefore it is over damped.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Magneticaly coupled circuits”.

(Q.1-Q.2) For the circuit given below i1 = 4 sin(2t) and i2 = 0

1. v1 = ?
a) -16 cos 2t V
b) 16 cos 2t V
c) 4 cos 2t V
d) -4 cos 2t V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: v1 = 2 d(i1)/dt + d(i2)/dt.

2. v2 = ?
a) 2 cos 2t V
b) -2 cos 2t V
c) 8 cos 2t V

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d) -8 cos 2t V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: v2 = d(i1)/dt + d(i2)/dt.

Circuit for Q.3-Q.4

3. If i1 = 0 and i2 = 2 sin(4t), the voltage v1 is


a) -24 cos(4t) V
b) 24 cos(4t) V
c) 1.5 cos(4t) V
d) -1.5 cos(4t) V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: v1 = 3 d(i1)/dt – 3 d(i2)/dt.

4. If i1 = e(-2t) and i2 = 0, the voltage v1 is


a) -6e(-2t) V
b) 6e(-2t) V
c) 1.5e(-2t) V
d) -1.5e(-2t) V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: v1 = 4 d(i1)/dt – 3 d(i2)/dt.

80
Circuit for Q.5-Q.8

5. If i1 = 3 cos(4t) and and i2 = 0. Find v1.


a) -24 sin(4t) V
b) 24 sin(4t) V
c) 1.5 sin(4t) V
d) -1.5 sin(4t) V
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: v1 = 2 d(i1)/dt – 2 d(i2)/dt.

6. If i1 = 3 cos(4t) and and i2 = 0. Find v2.


a) -24 sin(4t) V
b) -36 sin(4t) V
c) sin(4t) V
d) -sin(4t) V
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: v2 = -3 d(i1)/dt + 2 d(i2)/dt.

7. If i1 = 4 cos(3t) and and i1 = 0. Find v2.


a) 12 cos(3t) V
b) -12 cos(3t) V
c) -24 cos(3t) V
d) 24 cos(3t) V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: v1 = 2 d(i1)/dt – 2 d(i2)/dt.

8. If i2 = 4 cos(3t) and and i1 = 0. Find v2.


a) -12 cos(3t) V
b) -24 cos(3t) V

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c) -36 cos(3t) V
d) -48 cos(3t) V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: v2 = 3 d(i1)/dt + 2 d(i2)/dt.

9. Leq = ?

a) 4 H
b) 6 H
c) 7 H
d) 0 H
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Leq = L1 + L2 – 2M.

10. Leq = ?

a) 2 H
b) 4 H
c) 6 H
d) 8 H
View Answer

82
Answer: a
Explanation: Leq = L1 + L2 – 2M.

2. Questions on Conduction in Semiconductors

The section contains questions and answers on semiconductor electrons, holes and conductivity,
donor and acceptor impurities, fermi level semiconductor, charge densities, diffusion, carrier
lifetime, continuity equation and hall effect.

Electrons and Holes in Semiconductor Diffusion


Conductivity of a Semiconductor Carrier Life Time
Donor and Acceptor impurities The Continuity Equation
Charge Densities in a Semiconductor impurities The Hall Effect

83
Fermi Level in a Semiconductor having
Impurities

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Electrons and Holes in Semiconductor”.

84
1. Which of the following expressions represents the correct distribution of the electrons in the
conduction band? (gc(E)=density of quantum states, fF(E)=Fermi dirac probability
a) n(E)=gc(E)*fF(E)
b) n(E)=gc(-E)*fF(E)
c) n(E)=gc(E)*fF(-E)
d) n(E)= gc(-E)*fF(-E)
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The distribution of the electrons in the conduction band is given by the product of
the density into Fermi-dirac distribution.

2. What is the value of the effective density of states function in the conduction band at 300k?
a) 3*1019 cm-3
b) 0.4*10-19 cm-3
c) 2.5*1019 cm-3
d) 2.5*10-19 cm-3
View Answer

Answer : c

Explanation :
Substituting the values of mn=m0 ,h=6.626*10-34J/s ,k=1.38*10-23 and T=300K, we get
Nc=2.5*1019 cm-3.

3. In a semiconductor which of the following carries can contribute to the current?


a) Electrons
b) Holes
c) Both
d) None
View Answer

Answer : c
Explanation : In a semiconductor, two types of charges are there by which the flow of the current
takes place. So, both the holes and electrons take part in the flow of the current.

4. Which of the following expressions represent the Fermi probability function?


a) fF(E)=exp(-[E-EF]/KT)
b) fF(E)=exp(-[EF-E]/KT)
c) fF(E)=exp([E-EF]/KT)

85
d) fF(E)=exp(-[EF-E]/KT)
View Answer

Answer : b
Explanation : It is the correct formula for the Fermi probability function.

5. Electrons from valence band rises to conduction band when the temperature is greater than 0
k. Is it True or False?
a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer : a
Explanation : As the temperature rises above 0 k, the electrons gain energy and rises to the
conduction band from the valence band.

6. What is the intrinsic electrons concentration at T=300K in Silicon?


a) 1.5*1010cm-3
b) 1.5*10-10cm-3
c) 2.5*1019cm-3
d) 2.5*10-19cm-3
View Answer

Answer : a
Explanation : Using the formula,

We get, ni=1.5*1010cm-3.

7. The intrinsic Fermi level of a semiconductor depends on which of the following things?
a) Emidgap
b) mp*
c) mn*
d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer : d

Explanation :
From the above formula, Efidepends on all of the options given.

86
8. What is the difference between the practical value and theoretical value of ni?
a) Factor of 1
b) Factor of 2
c) Factor of 3
d) Factor of 4
View Answer

Answer : b
Explanation : This is practically proved.

9. The thermal equilibrium concentration of the electrons in the conduction band and the holes in
the valence band depends upon?
a) Effective density of states
b) Fermi energy level
c) Both A and B
d) Neither A nor B
View Answer

Answer : c
Explanation : The electrons and holes depends upon the effective density of the states and the
Fermi energy level given by the formula,

10. In which of the following semiconductor, the concentration of the holes and electrons is
equal?
a) Intrinsic
b) Extrinsic
c) Compound
d) Elemental
View Answer

Answer : a
Explanation : In the intrinsic semiconductor, ni=pi that is the number of the electrons is equal to
the number of the holes. Whereas in the extrinsic conductor ni is not equal to pi.

87
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Conductivity of a Semiconductor”.

1. What is the SI unit of conductivity?


a) Ωm
b) (Ωm)-1
c) Ω
d) m
View Answer

Answer : b
Explanation: The formula of the conductivity is the σ=1/ρ.
So, the unit of resistivity is Ωm.
Now, the unit of conductivity becomes the inverse of resistivity.

2. Which of the following expressions doesn’t represent the correct formula for Drift current
density?
a) J=σE
b) J=qnµE
c) J=µE
d) None
View Answer

Answer : c
Explanation : The following formulae represent the correct expression for drift current density,
J=σE
And J=qnµE.

3. Does a semiconductor satisfy the ohm’s law?


a) True
b) False
View Answer

88
Answer : a
Explanation : V=IR
J=σE
I/A=σ(V/L)
V=(L/ σA)*I=(ρL)*I/A=IR
Thus, above equation satisfies Ohm’s law.

4. In which range of temperature, freeze out point begins to occur?


a) Higher range
b) Lower range
c) Middle range
d) None
View Answer

Answer : b
Explanation : At lower range of temperature, the concentration and conductivity decreases with
lowering of the temperature.

5. Which of the following expression represents the correct formula for the conductivity in an
intrinsic material?
a) ρ=e(μn+μp )ni
b) σ=e(μn+μp )ni
c) σ=1/(e(μn+μp )ni)
d) ρ=1/(e(μn+μp )ni)
View Answer

Answer : b
Explanation: Option b is the correct formula.

6. What is the voltage difference if the current is 1mA and length and area is 2cm and 4cm2
respectively?(ρ=2Ωm)
a) 0.025V
b) 25V
c) 0.25V
d) None
View Answer

Answer : d
Explanation : V=IR
R=ρl/(A)=2*2/4=100Ω
V=1mA*100
=0.1V.

89
7. Is resistivity is a function of temperature?
a)True
b)False
View Answer

Answer : a
Explanation : Resistance depends on the temperature and the resistivity depends on the
resistance, so now the resistivity depends on the temperature.

8. What is the electric field when the voltage applied is 5V and the length is 100cm?
a) 0.5V/m
b) 5V/m
c) 50V/m
d) None
View Answer

Answer : c
Explanation : E=V/L=5/100cm=5V/m.

9. Calculate the average random thermal energy at T=300K?


a) 0.038eV
b) 3.8eV
c) 38eV
d) 0.38eV
View Answer

Answer : a
Explanation : Average random thermal energy=3/2*k*T=0.038eV.

90
10.

In the above figure, a semiconductor having an area ‘A’ and length ‘L’ and carrying current ‘I’
applied a voltage of ‘V’ volts across it. Calculate the relation between V and A?
a) V= ((ρ*L)/A)*I
b) V= ((ρ*A)/L)*I
c) V= ((ρ*I)/(A*L))
d) V=((ρ*I*A*L)
View Answer

Answer : a
Explanation: Option A, satisfies the Ohm’s law which is V=IR where R=(ρl)/A.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Donor and Acceptor impurities”.

1. At what temperature the donor states are completely ionized?


a) 0 K
b) ROOM
c) 300K
d) 900K
View Answer

91
Answer: b
Explanation: At room temperature, the donors have donated their electrons to the conduction
band.

2. The opposite of ionization takes place at which temperature?


a) 0 K
b) ROOM
c) 300 K
d) 900K
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: AT 0 K, all the donors and acceptors are in their lowest energy levels.

3. What do you mean by the tem ‘FREEZE-OUT’?


a) All the electrons are frozen at room temperature
b) None of the electrons are thermally elevated to the conduction band
c) All the electrons are in the conduction band
d) All the holes are in the valence band
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Freeze out means none of the electrons are transmitted to the conduction band.

4. Which of the following expressions represent the correct formula for the density of electrons
occupying the donor level?
a) nd=Nd-Nd+
b) nd=Nd-Nd–
c) nd=Nd+Nd+
d) nd=Nd+Nd–
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The density of the electrons is equal to the electrons present in the substrate minus
the number of donors present.

5. Which of the following band is just above the intrinsic Fermi level for n-type semiconductor?
a) Donor band
b) Valence band
c) Acceptor band
d) Conduction band
View Answer

92
Answer: a
Explanation: For n-type semiconductors, the donor band is just above the intrinsic Fermi level.

6. At absolute zero temperature, which level is above the Fermi energy level in the case of
donors?
a) Donor energy level
b) Acceptor energy level
c) Conduction Band
d) Valence Band
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: At T=0 K, the tem exp(-∞)=0 in the expression of

Thus, EF>ED
So, only conduction band lies above the Fermi energy level.

7. At T=0 K, the location of Fermi level with respect to the Ec and Ed for the n type material is?
a) Above than conduction band
b) Midway
c) Lower than Ed
d) Greater than Ed
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: At T=0 K, the Fermi level of n band lies between the midway of Ec and Ed as
intrinsic Fermi level always lies between the Ec and Ev.

8. At absolute zero temperature, which level is below the Fermi energy level in the case of
acceptors?
a) Donor energy level
b) Valence Band
c) Conduction band
d) Acceptor energy level
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: At T=0 K, the tem exp(-∞)=0 in the expression of

93
So, only valence band lies below the Fermi energy level of the acceptors.

9.

For the above n-type semiconductor, what is B knows as?


a) Valence Band
b) Conduction Band
c) Donor Energy level
d) Acceptor energy level
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: For n-type semiconductors, the donor energy level is always greater than the Fermi
level energy.

10.

For the above given figure, identify the correct option for satisfying the above semiconductor
figure?
a) P type, A-Conduction band, B-donor energy band, C- Valence band
b) P type, A-Conduction band, B-acceptor energy band, C- Valence band
c) n type, A-Conduction band, B-donor energy band, C- Valence band
d) n type, A-Conduction band, B-acceptor energy band, C- Valence band
View Answer

94
Answer: c
Explanation: The given figure has B band below the intrinsic Fermi level, so that would be
acceptor energy band and will be a p-type semiconductor.

Questions and Answers focuses on “Charge Densities in a Semiconductor impurities”.

1. Is n/p=ni2 is a correct formula?


a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The correct formula is n*p=ni2.

2. Calculate the number of electrons is the number of holes are 15*1010?


a) 15*1010
b) 1.5*108
c) 1.5*109
d) 1.5*1010
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: n*p=(1.5*1010)2
n*15*1010=1.5*1.5*1010*1010
n=1.5*109 electrons.

3. For which type of material, the number of free electron concentration is equal to the number of
donor atoms?
a) P type semiconductor
b) Metal
c) N-type semiconductor
d) Insulator
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The n-type semiconductor has equal concentration of free electron and donor
atoms.

4. Identify the correct condition for a semiconductor to be electrically neutral.


a) Nd+p=Na+n
b) Nd-p=Na+n

95
c) Nd+p=Na-n
d) Nd-p=Na-n
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The sum of the number of donors and the holes is equal to the sum of the number of
the acceptors and the electrons.

5. Do the Fermi energy level changes in a semiconductor?


a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The Fermi energy level changes as the electron and hole concentrations change
because of the formula which defines the position of the Fermi level depending on the
concentration of holes and electrons.

6. Consider a silicon wafer having Nc=2.8*1019cm-3 and the Fermi energy is .25eV below the
conduction band. Calculate the equilibrium concentrations of electrons at T=300K?
a) 18*1016cm-3
b) 1.8*1016cm-3
c) 1.8*1014cm-3
d) 180*1016cm-3
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: n0=Nc*exp(-Eg/KT)=2.8*1019*exp(-0.25/0.0259)
=18*1016cm-3.

7. If Ef>Efi, then what is the type of the semiconductor?


a) n-type
b) P-type
c) Elemental
d) Compound
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: For n-type, the Fermi energy level is greater than the intrinsic Fermi energy level
because in an energy band, Fermi level of donors is always greater than that of the acceptors.

96
8. The 1-fF (E) increases in which of the following band for n type semiconductor?
a) Conduction band
b) Donor band
c) Acceptor band
d) Valence band
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: For an n-type semiconductor, the probability of fF (E) decreases in the valence
band. The probability of finding the electron in the conduction band is more.

9. The fF (E) decreases in which of the following band for p-type semiconductor?
a) Conduction band
b) Donor band
c) Acceptor band
d) Valence band
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The probability of finding the electron in the conduction band decreases for a p-
type semiconductor because in a p-type semiconductor, the holes will be in conduction band
rather than the electrons.

10. Do the intrinsic Fermi energy level changes with the addition of dopants and acceptors?
a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The intrinsic Fermi energy level always remains constant because it is an imaginary
level taken to distinguish between the Fermi level of the types of semiconductor.

97
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Fermi Level in a Semiconductor having Impurities”.

1. Which states get filled in the conduction band when the donor-type impurity is added to a
crystal?
a) Na
b) Nd
c) N
d) P
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: When the donor-type impurity is added to a crystal, first Nd states get filled
because it is of the highest energy.

2. Which of the following expression represent the correct formulae for calculating the exact
position of the Fermi level for p-type material?
a) EF = EV + kTln(ND / NA )
b) EF = -EV + kTln(ND / NA )
c) EF = EV – kTln(ND / NA )
d) EF = -EV – kTln(ND / NA )
View Answer

98
Answer: a
Explanation: The correct position of the Fermi level is found with the formula in the ‘a’ option.

3. Where will be the position of the Fermi level of the n-type material when ND=NA?
a) Ec
b) Ev
c) Ef
d) Efi
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: When ND=NA, kTln(ND/NA )=0
So,
Ef=Ec.

4. When the temperature of either n-type or p-type increases, determine the movement of the
position of the Fermi energy level?
a) Towards up of energy gap
b) Towards down of energy gap
c) Towards centre of energy gap
d) Towards out of page
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: whenever the temperature increases, the Fermi energy level tends to move at the
centre of the energy gap.

5. Is it true, when the temperature rises, the electrons in the conduction band becomes greater
than the donor atoms?
a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: When the temperature increases, there is an increase in the electron-hole pairs and
all the donor atoms get ionized, so now the thermally generated electrons will be greater than the
donor atoms.

6. If the excess carriers are created in the semiconductor, then identify the correct energy level
diagram.

99
a)

b)

c)

d)
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The diagram A refers the most suitable energy level diagrams because
Efp>Ef>Efi>Efp>Ev.

100
7. If excess charge carriers are created in the semiconductor then the new Fermi level is known
as Quasi-Fermi level. Is it true?
a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Quasi-fermi level is defined as the change in the level of the Fermi level when the
excess chare carriers are added to the semiconductor.

8. Ef lies in the middle of the energy level indicates the unequal concentration of the holes and
the electrons?
a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: When the Ef is in the middle of the energy level, it indicates the equal
concentration of the holes and electrons.

9. Consider a bar of silicon having carrier concentration n0=1015 cm-3 and ni=1010cm-3. Assume
the excess carrier concentrations to be n=1013cm-3, calculate the quasi-fermi energy level at
T=300K?
a) 0.2982 eV
b) 0.2984 eV
c) 0.5971 eV
d) 1Ev
View Answer

Answer: b

Explanation:
=1.38*10-23*300*ln(1013+1015/1013)
=0.2984 eV.

10. From the above equation, assuming the same values for the for ni, n= p and T. Given that
p0=105cm-3. Calculate the quasi-fermi energy level in eV?
a) 0.1985
b) 0.15
c) 0.1792

101
d) 0.1
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Using the same equation,

Substituting the respective values,


EFi – EFp=0.1792 eV.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Diffusion”.

1. What is the SI unit of electron diffusion constant?


a) cm2/s
b) m2/s
c) m/s

102
d) none
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: J=eDdn/dx
So D=q*m/ (q*s*(1/m))
=m2/s.

2. Calculate the diffusion current density when the concentration of electron varies from the
1*1018 to 7*1017 cm-3 over a distance of 0.10 cm.D=225cm2/s
a) 100 A/cm2
b) 108 A/cm2
c) 0.01A/cm2
d) None
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: J=eDdn/dx
J=1.6*10-19*225*(1018-(7*1017))/0.1
=108A/cm2.

3. Which is the correct formula for the Jp?


a) Jp=qDdp/dx
b) Jp=pDdn/dx
c) Jp=-qDdp/dx
d) None
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Jp is negative for the p type of semiconductors.

4. What is the direction of the electron diffusion current density relative to the electron flux?
a) Same direction
b) Opposite to each other
c) Perpendicular to each other
d) At 270 degrees to each other
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: From the graph between electron concentration and the distance, we can see that
the direction of the electron diffusion current density is opposite to the electron flux.

103
5. In diffusion, the particles flow from a region of _______ to region of ___________
a) High, low
b) Low , high
c) High , medium
d) Low, medium
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Diffusion is the process of flow of particles form the region of the high
concentration to a region of low concentration.

6. Which of the following parameter describes the best movement of the electrons inside a
semiconductor?
a) Velocity gradient
b) Diffusion
c) Mobility
d) Density gradient
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Mobility is defined as the movement of the electrons inside a semiconductor. On
the other hand, velocity gradient is the ratio of velocity to distance.

7. Which of the following term isn’t a part of the total current density in a semiconductor?
a) Temperature
b) µ
c) e
d) E
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: J=enµE+epµE+eDdn/dx-eDdp/dx
So, temperature isn’t a part of the equation.

8. What does dn/dx represent?


a) Velocity gradient
b) Volume gradient
c) Density gradient
d) None
View Answer

104
Answer: c
Explanation: dn/dx represent velocity gradient.

9. Calculate the diffusion constant for the holes when the mobility of the holes is 400cm2/V-s
and temperature is 300K?
a) 1.035m m2/s
b) 0.035m m2/s
c) 1.5m m2/s
d) 1.9m m2/s
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Dp=VT*μn
= (1.38*10-23*300*400*10-2)/ (1.6*10-19)
= 1.035m m2/s.

10. Calculate the diffusion constant for the electrons when the mobility of the electrons is
325cm2/V-s and temperature is 300K?
a) 0.85 m2/s
b) 0.084 m2/s
c) 0.58 m2/s
d) 0.95 m2/s
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Dn=VT*μn
= (1.38*10-23*300*325*10-2)/ (1.6*10-19)
= 0.084 m2/s.

105
Questions and Answers for Freshers focuses on “Carrier Life Time”.

1. What is the range of the carrier lifetime?


a) Nanoseconds to microseconds
b) Nanoseconds to hundreds of microseconds
c) Nanoseconds to tens of microseconds
d) Nanoseconds to milliseconds
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Carrier lifetime is defined as the existence of any carrier for τ seconds. Carrier
lifetime ranges from nanoseconds to hundreds of microseconds.

2. What is the process number of Schokley-Read-Hall Theory processes?


Process-‘ The capture of an electron from the conduction band by an initially neutral empty trap’
a) Process1
b) Process2
c) Process3
d) Process4
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: This is the first process of Schokley-Read-Hall theory of Recombination.

3. Calculate the recombination rate if the excess carrier concentration is 1014cm-3 and the carrier
lifetime is 1µseconds.
a) 108
b) 1010
c) 1020
d) 1014
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The recombination rate, R=δn/τ.
So, R=1014 / 10-6
R=1020.

106
4. Calculate the capture rate where Cn=10, Nt=1010cm-3, n=1020 and fF (Et)=0.4.
a) 6*1030
b) 5*1030
c) 36*1030
d) 1.66*1029
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Rcn=Cn*N_t*(1-fF (Et))*n
Substituting the values,
Rcn=6*1030.

5. Calculate the emission rate where En=2.5, Nt=1010cm-3 and fF (Et)=0.6 .


a) 15*1010
b) 1.5*1010
c) 15*1011
d) 1.5*1011
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Ren=En*Nt*(fF (Et))
Substituting the values,
Ren=1.5*1010.

6. At what condition, the rate of electron capture from the conduction band and the rate of the
electron emission back into the conduction band must be equal?
a) Thermal equilibrium
b) At room temperature
c) T=250K
d) At boiling temperature
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: At thermal equilibrium, the electron capture rate and the emission rate will be same
in the conduction band.

7. Calculate the carrier lifetime when Cp=5 and Nt=1010cm-3.


a) 2*1011
b) 2*10-11
c) 20*10-11
d) 20*1011
View Answer

107
Answer: b
Explanation: τp=1/(Cp*Nt )
=1/(5*1010)
=2*10-11.

8. The number of majority carriers that are available for recombining with excess minority
carriers decreases as the excess semiconductor becomes intrinsic. Is it true?
a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: With the increase in the number of the majority carriers, the carriers for the
recombination will be decreasing with the excess minority carriers and will finally become
intrinsic as the concentrations will be same.

9. Which of the following is used as the recombination agent by semiconductor device


manufactures?
a) Silver
b) Gold
c) Platinum
d) Aluminium
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Gold is used as a recombination agent because of its chemical properties as it was
used in the Bohr’s experiment. Thus the device designer can obtain the desired carrier lifetimes
by introducing gold into silicon under controlled conditions.

10. The rate of change of the excess density is proportional to the density. Is it true of false?
a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The rate of change of the excess density depends on the density of the
semiconductor and the rate with respect to time is also dependent on it.

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Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “The Continuity Equation”.

1. What does p/τ represent?


a) holes
b) time
c) holes per second lost
d) p per unit time
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Option (c) represents the holes per second lost by recombination per unit volume.

2. Which of the following is the Taylor’s expression?

a)

b)

c)

d)
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Option a represents the correct formula for the Taylor’s expression.

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3. Calculate the number of coulombs per second if the area is 4cm2, recombination rate of hole is
1000 cm-3/s and the differential length is 2mm.
a) 1.28*10-23
b) 1.28*10-22
c) 1.28*10-21
d) 1.28*10-20
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: number of coulombs per second= eAdxp/τ
=1.6*10-19*4*10-4*2*10-3*1000
=1.28*10-22.

4. The current entering the volume at x is I and leaving is I+Δi , the number of coulombs per
second will be equal to δI. Is it true or false?
a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Coulombs per second is known as the current. The differential current will be the
current through the semiconductor.

5. The change in the carrier density is due to


a) Flow of incoming flux
b) Flow of outgoing flux
c) Difference of flow between incoming and outgoing flux
d) Difference of flow between incoming and outgoing flux plus generation and minus
recombination
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The change in the carrier density describes the continuity equation which is equal to
the difference between the incoming and outgoing flux plus generation and minus
recombination.

6. What of the following conditions satisfies when the number of holes which are thermally
generated is equal to the holes lost by recombination?
a) I≠0
b) dp/dt≠0
c) g=p/τ

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d) g≠p/τ
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Under the equilibrium conditions, I will be zero and then the dp/dt will aso be equal
to zero in the continuity equation. Then, g= p/τ is left which is option c.

7. What is the diffusion length for holes when Dp=25cm2/s and τp=25s?
a) 25cm
b) 1cm
c) 0.04cm
d) 50cm
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Lp=√(Dp*τp)
=√(25*25)
=25cm.

8. Which of the following represents the continuity equation?


a) dp/dt=-(p-p0)/τp+Dp(d2p/dx2)-µpd(ρϵ)/dx
b) dp/dt=-(p-p0)/τp-Dp(d2p/dx2)-µpd(ρϵ)/dx
c) dp/dt=-(p-p0)/τp+Dp(d2p/dx2)+µpd(ρϵ)/dx
d) dp/dt=(p-p0)/τp-Dp(d2p/dx2)-µpd(ρϵ)/dx
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Option a represents the correct equation of the continuity equation for holes.

9. What is the diffusion length for electrons when Dn=10cm2/s and τn=40s?
a) 50cm
b) 25cm
c) 20cm
d) 15cm
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Ln=√(Dn*τn)
=√(10*40)
=20cm.

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10. Which of the following represents the best definition for the diffusion length for holes?
a) Average distance which an electron is injected travels before recombining with an electron
b) Average distance which a hole is injected travels before recombining with an electron
c) Average distance which a hole is injected travels before recombining with a hole
d) Average distance which an electron is injected before recombining with a hole
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Diffusion length for holes is represented as the average distance which a hole is
injected travels before recombining with an electron. It is the distance into the semiconductor at
which the injected concentration falls to 1/ϵ of its value at x=0.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “The Hall Effect”.

1. In the Hall Effect, the directions of electric field and magnetic field are parallel to each other.
The above statement is
a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: To make Lorentz force into the effect, the electric field and magnetic field should
be perpendicular to each other.

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2. Which of the following parameters can’t be found with Hall Effect?
a) Polarity
b) Conductivity
c) Carrier concentration
d) Area of the device
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The Hall Effect is used for finding the whether the semiconductor is of n-type or p-
type, mobility, conductivity and the carrier concentration.

3. In the Hall Effect, the electric field is in x direction and the velocity is in y direction. What is
the direction of the magnetic field?
a) X
b) Y
c) Z
d) XY plane
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The Hall Effect satisfies the Lorentz’s Force which is
E=vxB
So, the direction of the velocity, electric field and magnetic field should be perpendicular to each
other.

4. What is the velocity when the electric field is 5V/m and the magnetic field is 5A/m?
a) 1m/s
b) 25m/s
c) 0.2m/s
d) 0.125m/s
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: E=vxB
v=E/B
=5/5
=1m/s.

5. Calculate the hall voltage when the Electric Field is 5V/m and height of the semiconductor is
2cm.
a) 10V
b) 1V

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c) 0.1V
d) 0.01V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Vh=E*d
=5*2/100
=0.1V.

6. Which of the following formulae doesn’t account for correct expression for J?
a) ρv
b) I/wd
c) σE
d) µH
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: B=µH
So, option d is correct option.

7. Calculate the Hall voltage when B=5A/m, I=2A, w=5cm and n=1020.
a) 3.125V
b) 0.3125V
c) 0.02V
d) 0.002V
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Vh=BI/wρ
=5=2/ (5*10-2*105*1.6*10-19)
=0.002V.

8. Calculate the Hall Effect coefficient when number of electrons in a semiconductor is 1020.
a) 0.625
b) 0.0625
c) 6.25
d) 62.5
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: R=1/ρ

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=1/(1.6*10-19*1020)
=0.0625.

9. What is the conductivity when the Hall Effect coefficient is 5 and mobility is 5cm2 /s.
a) 100 S/m
b) 10 S/m
c) 0.0001S/m
d) 0.01 S/m
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: µ=σR
σ =µ/R
=5*10-4/5
=0.0001 S/m.

10. In Hall Effect, the electric field applied is perpendicular to both current and magnetic field?
a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: In Hall Effect, the electric field is perpendicular to both current and magnetic field
so that the force due to magnetic field can be balanced by the electric field or vice versa.

115
3. Questions & Answers on Semiconductor-Diode Characteristics

The section contains questions on pn junction qualitative theory, p-n junction diode, band
structure of open circuited p-n junction, components in p-n junction diode, volt ampere
characteristics, diode resistance and capacitances, pn diode switching times, breakdown and
tunnel diodes, point contact diode, p-i-n diode and its characteristics.

Qualitative Theory of the p-n junction


The P-N Junction as a Diode
Diode Resistance
Band Structure of an Open-Circuited p-n
Diode Capacitances
junction
PN Diode Switching Times
The Current Components in a P-N junction
Breakdown Diodes
diode
Tunnel Diodes and its Characteristics
Quantitative Theory of the P-N Diode Currents
p-i-n Diode and its Characteristics
The Volt Ampere Characteristics
The Point Contact Diode
The Temperature Dependence of P-N
Characteristics

116
Questions and Answers for freshers focuses on “Qualitative Theory of the p-n junction”.

1. The donor ions is represented by a positive plus sign. Is it True or False?


a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The donor atom donates the extra ion to the semiconductor. Therefore, it is represented by
the positive plus sign.

2. Initially, the p-type carriers are located to the____________of the semiconductor.


a) Right
b) Left
c) Middle
d) Top
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The p-type carriers are nominally located to the left of the junction and n-type carriers are
to the right.

3. The displacement of the charges results in


a) Magnetic field
b) Electric field
c) Rust
d) Hall effect
View Answer

Answer: The flow of carriers in a semiconductor results in the electric field across the junction. The
electric field thus makes the current flow in the device.

4. What is the value of 1 micron?


a) 10-6cm
b) 10-5cm

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c) 10-4cm
d) 10-3cm
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: 1 micron=10-4cm=10-6cm.

5. Which of the following results when the equilibrium established in a semiconductor?


a) Restrain the process of diffusion
b) Electric field becomes very high
c) Both a and b
d) None of these
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: As the electric field is very high, the flow of the carries will be restricted and the equilibrium
will be obtained.

6. Which of the following options doesn’t defined for the necessity for the existence of the potential
barrier?
a) Contact
b) Potential
c) Diffusion
d) Fermi dirac
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The potential barrier is formed at the junction of the semiconductor. It’s necessity of the
potential barrier is known as the contact, potential or diffusion.

7. Under the open-circuited conditions the net hole current must be zero. Is this statement is True or
false?
a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The net hole current is zero because if this wasn’t true, the hole density at one end of the
semiconductor would continue to increase indefinitely with time, a situation which is obviously
physically impossible.

118
8. The un-neutralised ions in the neighbourhood of the junction are known as
a) Depletion charges
b) Uncovered charges
c) Mobile ions
d) Counter ions
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The un-neutralised ions in the neighbourhood of the junction are known as uncovered ions
because they are not mobile.

9. Which of the following doesn’t defines for the junction which is depleted of mobile charges?
a) Depletion region
b) Uncovered region
c) Space charge region
d) Transition region
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The junction which is depleted of mobile charges is known as depletion region or space
charge region and transition region.

10. Convert 10 micron to meters.


a) 10-5m
b) 107m
c) 10-6m
d) 10-4m
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Since, 1 micron=10-6m
10 micron =10-5m.

119
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “The P-N Junction as a Diode”.

1. How many junction/s do a diode consist?


a) 0
b) 1
c) 2
d) 3
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Diode is a one junction semiconductor device which has one cathode and anode. The
junction is of p-n type.

2. If the positive terminal of the battery is connected to the anode of the diode, then it is known as
a) Forward biased
b) Reverse biased
c) Equilibrium
d) Schottky barrier
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: When a positive terminal is connected to the anode, the diode is forward biased which lets
the flow of the current in the circuit.

120
3. During reverse bias, a small current develops known as
a) Forward current
b) Reverse current
c) Reverse saturation current
d) Active current
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: When the diode is reverse biased, a small current flows between the p-n junction which is
of the order of the Pico ampere. This current is known as reverse saturation current.

4. If the voltage of the potential barrier is V0. A voltage V is applied to the input, at what moment will the
barrier disappear?
a) V< V0
b) V= V0
c) V> V0
d) V<< V0
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: When the voltage will be same that of the potential barrier, the potential barrier
disappears resulting in flow of current.

5. During the reverse biased of the diode, the back resistance decrease with the increase of the
temperature. Is it true or false?
a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Due to the increase in the reverse saturation current due to the increase in the
temperature, the back resistance decrease with the increasing temperature.

6. What is the maximum electric field when Vbi=2V , VR=5V and width of the semiconductor is 7cm?
a) -100V/m
b) -200V/m
c) 100V/m
d) 200V/m
View Answer

121
Answer: b
Explanation: Emax=-2(Vbi+VR)/W
=-2(2+5)/ (7*10-2)
=-200V/m.

7. When the diode is reverse biased with a voltage of 6V and Vbi=0.63V. Calculate the total potential.
a) 6V
b) 6.63V
c) 5.27V
d) 0.63V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Vt=Vbi+VR
=0.63+6
=6V.

8. It is possible to measure the voltage across the potential barrier through a voltmeter?
a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The contacts of the voltmeter have some resistance which will not accurately measure the
voltage across the potential barrier. Thus, it is not possible to measure the voltage across the potential
barrier.

9. What will be the output of the following circuit? (Assume 0.7V drop across the diode)

a) 12V
b) 12.7V
c) 11.3V
d) 0V
View Answer

122
Answer: c
Explanation: V=12-0.7
=11.3V.

10. Which of the following formula represents the correct formula for width of the depletion region?

a)

b)

c)

d)
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Option a is the correct formula.

Questions and Answers for Experienced people focuses on “Band Structure of an Open-Circuited p-n
junction”.

1. The conduction band edge in the p material is not at the same level to that of conduction band edge
in the n material. Is it true or false?
a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: In a p-n junction diode, the energy levels of the p material and n material will not be at
same level. They will be different. So, the conduction band edge as well as the valence band edge of the
p material will not be same to that of the n material.

123
2. Which of the following equations represent the correct expression for the shift in the energy levels for
the p-n junction?
a) Eo = Ecn – Ecp
b) Eo = Ecp – Ecn
c) Eo = Ecp + Ecn
d) Eo = -Ecp – Ecn
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The shift in the energy of the energy level will be the difference of the conduction band
edge of the p material and conduction band edge of n material. In the energy level diagram, the
conduction band edge of p material is higher than that of the n material.

3. Calculate the Eo given that Nd=1.5*1010cm-3, Na=1.5*1010cm-3 at temperature 300K?


a) 1.5*1010eV
b) 0.256eV
c) 0eV
d) 4.14*10-21eV
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Eo=kTln((Nd*Na)/(ni)2)
Substituting k=1.38*10-23/K, T=300k and the values ofNd,Naand ni,
We get
Eo=0eV.

4. In a p-n junction, the valence band edge of the p material is greater than which of the following band?
a) Conduction band edge of n material
b) Valence band edge of n material
c) Conduction band edge of p material
d) Fermi level of p material
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: When the p-n junction is formed, the energy levels of the p- material go higher than the n
material. That’s why the valence band of the p material will be greater than that of the n material.

5. Which of the following equations represent the correct expression for the band diagram of the p-n
junction? (E1=difference between the fermi level of material and conduction band of n material and
E2=difference between the conduction band of n material and fermi level of n material)

124
a) Ecn – E f = (1/2)*EG – E1
b) Ecn – E f = (1/2)*EG – E2
c) Ef – Ecp = (1/2)*EG – E1
d) Ecn – Ef = (1/2)*EG + E1
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: From the energy band diagram of the p-n junction, the option ‘a’ satisfies that band
diagram.

6. Calculate the value of Eo when pno=104cm-3 and ppo=1016cm-3 at T=300K.


a) 1meV
b) 0.7meV
c) 0.7eV
d) 0.1meV
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Eo=kTln(ppo/pno)
Substituting the values, we get
Eo=0.7eV.

7. Calculate the value of Dp when µp=400cm/s and VT=25mV.


a) 1
b) 0.01
c) 0.1
d) 10
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Dp= µp*VT
=400*10-2*25*10-3
=0.1.

8. What is the value of kT at room temperature?


a) 0.0256eV
b) 0.25eV
c) 25eV
d) 0.0025eV
View Answer

125
Answer: a
Explanation: kT=1.38*10-23*300K
=4.14*10-21/ (1.6*10-19)
=0.0256eV.

9. Is Vo depends only on the equilibrium concentrations. Is it true or false?


a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Vo is the contact potential of the junction when the junction is in equilibrium. If, the
junction is not in the equilibrium, Vo can’t be calculated.

10. Calculate Vo when ppo=1016cm-3, pno=104cm-3 and Vt=25mV.


a) 69V
b) 6.9V
c) 0.69V
d) 0.069V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Vo=VT ln⁡(ppo/pno )
=25*10-3*ln(1016/104)
=0.69V.

Questions and Answers for Experienced people focuses on “The Current Components in a P-N junction
diode”.

126
1. When a forward biased is applied to a diode, the electrons enter to which region of the diode?
a) P-region
b) N-region
c) P-n junction
d) Metal side
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: When the forward biased is applied, the electrons enter to the p-region and the holes enter
to the n-region so that holes can flow from p-region to n-region. Whereas, the electrons can travel from
n-region to p-region.

2. The number of injected minority carriers falls off linearly with the increase in the distance from the
junction. Is it true or false?
a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The number of minority carriers fall off exponentially rather than linearly with the increase
in the distance from the junction.

3. What is the total current in a diode when x=0?


a) I = Ipn (0) – Inp (0)
b) I = Ipn (0) + Inp (0)
c) I = -Ipn (0) – Inp (0)
d) I = -Ipn (0) + Inp (0)
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: At junction, the total current is equal to the minority hole current plus the minority
electron current.

4. The current in the diode is


1. Unipolar
2. Bipolar
a) I only
b) II only
c) I and II both

127
d) Neither I nor II
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The current in the diode consists of both the electrons and holes. So, it is bipolar.

5. The current is constant throughout the device. Is it true or false?


a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The current in the device is constant but the proportion due to the electrons and holes
varies with distance.

6. Which of the following statements is correct under forward biased p-n diode?
a) current enters n side as hole current and leaves p side as electron current
b) current enters n side as electron current and leaves p side as hole current
c) current enters p side as hole current and leaves n side as electron current
d) current enters p side as hole current and leaves p side as electron current
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: When the current flows in a p-n diode, the current enters p side as hole current and leaves
n side as electron current.

7. Calculate the total current when Ipn (0)=1mA and Inp (0)=2mA.
a) 1mA
b) -1mA
c) 0
d) 3mA
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: I=Ipn (0)+Inp (0)
=1mA+2mA
=3mA.

8. What is the hole current in the p region of the diode?


a) Ipp (x)=I-Inp (x)
b) Ipp (x)=I+Inp (x)

128
c) Ipp (x)=-I-Inp (x)
d) Ipp (x)=-I+Inp (x)
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The hole current in the p region is equal to the total current minus the minority electrons in
the p region.

9. What does Inp represent?


a) Hole current in n region
b) Hole current in p region
c) Electron current in n region
d) Electron current in p region
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Inp constitutes of the electron current in the p region. It is the minority electron carrier in
the p region.

10. Deep into the p side the current is a drift current Ipp of holes sustained by the small electric field in
the semiconductor. Is the statement true or false?
a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: In the p region, the drift current is sustained into the p region by the small electric field
which is formed at the junction in the semiconductor. So, the above statement is true.

129
Quantitative Theory of the P-N diode Currents”.

1. What is the thickness of ‘space charge region’ or ‘transition region’ in P-N junction diode?
a) 1 micron
b) 5 micron
c) 10 micron
d) 2.876 micron
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The region of the junction is depleted by mobile charges, hence it is called space charge
region or depletion region or transition region which is 10-4 cm = 10-6 m= 1 micron.

2. If what of the following is doped into a semiconductor say germanium a P-N junction is formed.
a) Electrons and Protons
b) Protons and Neutrons
c) Neutrons and Electrons
d) Gallium and Phosphorus
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: A P-N junction is formed only when a donor impurities and acceptor impurities are added
to either side of a semiconductor like silicon and germanium.

3. Which of the factors doesn’t change the diode current.


a) Temperature
b) External voltage applied to the diode
c) Boltzmann‘s constant
d) Resistance
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: I = Io [e(v/nVt) -1], as shown in this equation the diode current is dependent on temperature ,

130
voltage applied on the diode , Boltzmann’s constant but diode current is not dependent on resistance as
it is independent of resistance.

4. The product of mobility of the charge carriers and applied Electric field intensity is known as
a) Drain velocity
b) Drift velocity
c) Push velocity
d) Pull velocity
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: When the semiconductors like silicon and germanium is implied by an electric field the
charge carriers when get drifted by certain velocity known as drift velocity. Drift velocity is product of
mobility of charge carriers and field intensity.

5. The tendency of charge carriers to move from a region of heavily concentrated charges to region of
less concentrated charge is known as.
a) Depletion current
b) Drain current
c) Diffusion current
d) Saturation current
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: In a semiconductor the charge will always have a tendency to move from higher
concentrated area to less concentrated area to maintain equilibrium this movement of charges will
result in diffusion current.

6. If the drift current is 100mA and diffusion current is 1A what is the total current in the semiconductor
diode.
a) 1.01 A
b) 1.1 A
c) 900m A
d) 10 A
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: We know that the total current in a semiconductor is equal to sum of both drift current and
diffusion current. Total current = 1A + 100mA =1.1A.

131
7. Which of the following is reverse biased?

a) A)
b) B)
c) C)
d) D)
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The P-N junction diode is forward bias when the voltage applied to p type is greater than
the n type and vice versa, since the voltage applied to p type is less in C) it is the answer.

8. The drift velocity is 5V and the applied electric field intensity 20v/m what will be the mobility of
charge carriers.
a) 100 m2/ (vs)
b) 4 m2/ (vs)
c) 15 m2/ (vs)
d) 0.25 m2/ (vs)
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: We know that mobility of charge carriers is drift velocity divide by applied electric field
intensity. Mobility = drift velocity / field intensity.

9. When there is an open circuit what will be the net hole current.
a) 5A

132
b) 0.05A
c) 0.5A
d) 0A
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: If there is any current present under open circuit there will be an indefinite growth of holes
at one end of the semiconductor which is practically not possible hence zero amperes.

10. Rate of change of concentration per unit length in a semiconductor is called as.
a) Concentration change
b) Concentration mixture
c) Concentration gradient
d) Concentration variant
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: In a semiconductor the holes as well as electrons which are the charge carriers is not
equally concentrated on all regions of the semiconductor the change in their rate is referred as
concentration gradient.

133
“The Volt Ampere Characteristics”.

1. The voltage equivalent of temperature (Vt) in a P-N junctions is given by.


a) T/1000 volts
b) T/300 volts
c) T/1600 volts
d) T/11600 volts
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: We know that the P-N junction is temperature dependent, it varies with the change in
temperature the measure of change that is the voltage equivalent of temperature is given by Vt =
T/11600 volts.

2. At room temperature what will be voltage equivalent of temperature.


a) 10 mV
b) 4.576 mV
c) 26 mV
d) 98 V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Room temperature is 27o C = 300 k .We know that Vt= T/11600 volts by substituting the
value of T we get 300/11600 = 26mV.

3. In a P-N junction the positive voltage at which the diode starts to conduct consequently is called.
a) Cut off voltage
b) Saturation voltage
c) Knee voltage
d) Breakdown voltage
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: At a certain critical voltage, a large reverse current flows and the diode is said to be in
breakdown region, at this region the diode will be forward biased and starts to conduct consequently.

134
4. In volt ampere characteristics the current increases with voltage _________
a) Exponentially
b) Equally
c) Sinusoidal
d) Unequally
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The current in the volt ampere characteristics increases exponentially with respect to
voltage I(t) = eV(t).

5. The cut off voltage for diode of silicon semiconductor and germanium semiconductor is ____
volts.
a) 0.5 and 0.1
b) 0.7 and 0.3
c) 1 and 0.5
d) 0.5 and 1
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The cut off voltage is the voltage only after which the semiconductors conduct, the cut
off voltage for silicon is 0.7V in the sense the silicon diode will conduct only when voltage is more
than 0.7V and 0.3 for germanium.

6. What would be the current and voltage when there is no external voltage applied on the diode?
a) 0
b) 0.7
c) 0.3
d) 1
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: When there is no external voltage applied on the circuit it acts as an open circuit and
there will be no flow of charges hence the current and voltage will be zero.

7. In P-N junction V-I characteristics during forward biased, at what region the current increase is
very low.
a) Saturation
b) Depletion
c) Cut off
d) Breakdown
View Answer

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Answer: b
Explanation: In the V-I characteristics the change in the current with respect to voltage is very less in
depletion region due to the large resistance in the circuit as the resistance deceases by a certain
value the current increases exponentially with voltage.

8. In a P-N junction diode during forward bias if the current increases more than the value that is
rated will destroy the diode.
a) True
b) False
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: If the current in the P-N junction diode during forward bias increases beyond the value
rated on it will destroy the diode because voltage is directly proportional to current so extreme
voltage will burn the diode down.

9. When the P-N junction diode is forward bias the current in circuit is controlled by.
a) External voltage
b) Capacitance
c) Resistance
d) Internal voltage
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: When the P-N junction is in forward bias that is the p side connected to the positive
terminal of voltage source the current in the circuit can be varied by varying the resistance, the
current flow decreases as the resistance increases and vice versa.

10. The P-N junction diode conducts in which direction.


a) Reverse direction
b) Forward direction
c) Both Forward and Reverse direction
d) Neither Forward nor Reverse direction
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The P-N junction diode conducts only in forward direction, it will not conduct in reverse
direction so only Zener Diode was introduced as it conducts in both forward and reverse direction.

136
The Temperature Dependence of P-N Characteristics”.

1. The magnitude of the electric charge (e) is given by ____________


a) -1.6*10-19 C
b) 1.6*10-19 C
c) 9.11*10-31 C
d) 1.637*10-37 C
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The charge of the electron is the magnitude of electric force that an electron exerts on
other particles which is equal to -1.6*10-19 C, the negative sign indicates the direction of force.

2. What is the forbidden gap voltage for silicon material?


a) 1.46 V
b) 1.56 V
c) 10 V
d) 1.21 V
View Answer

137
Answer: d
Explanation: The forbidden gap voltage of a material is numerically equal to forbidden gap energy of the
material which is 1.21 joules for silicon so forbidden gap voltage will be 1.21 V.

3. Which of the following parameters of P-N junction diode increases with temperature.
a) Cut in voltage
b) Reverse saturation current.
c) Ideality factor
d) Resistance
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Reverse saturation current at temperature T2 is 2[(T2 –T1)/10] times greater than reverse
saturation current at temperature T1 where T2 is greater than T1.

4. Which of the following diodes do not exhibits a constant reverse saturation current with the change in
reverse saturation voltage.
a) 1N909
b) 1N405
c) 1N207
d) 1N676
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: 1N207 is the germanium diode for which the reverse saturation current is not constant
which the change in voltage due to the leakage in the surface of the diode and due to the generation of
new current carriers.

5. Which of these P-N junction characteristics are not dependent on temperature.


a) Junction resistance
b) Reverse saturation current
c) Bias current
d) Barrier voltage
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: As the temperature of the P-N junction increases the current increases and the voltage
decreases so the barrier voltage, reverse saturation current, bias current changes with temperature but
junction resistance is independent of temperature.

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6. As the temperature to the P-N junction increases the current increases due to?
a) Leakage in bias region
b) Electron-hole pair
c) Leakage in P region
d) Leakage in N region
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: As the temperature to the P-N junction increases the mobility of charges increases thus
increases the electron-hole pair which proportionally increases the current in the P-N junction diode.

7. By what percentage the reverse saturation current increases with 10 C rise in the temperature.
a) 25%
b) 12.5%
c) 50%
d) 7%
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: As the temperature to the P-N junction diode increases the mobility of charges increases
thus increasing the current, the reverse saturation current increases by 7% with 10C rise in temperature
and doubles with every 100C rise in temperature.

8. What will be the decrease of barrier voltage with the rise in 10C in temperature?
a) 10V
b) 1mV
c) 10mV
d) 2mV
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: As the temperature to the P-N junction diode increases the voltage across the junction
decreases and the current increases with every degree rise in temperature the barrier voltage increases
by 2mV.

9. What will be the reverse saturation current in the junction when the voltage across the junction is 0?
a) 0.3A
b) 0.7A
c) 0A

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d) 1.24A
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: When the voltage across the junction is zero in the sense there will be potential difference
between the junctions hence there will be no movement of electrons and holes, hence the current will
be 0.

10. The breakdown voltage of the P-N junction diode decreases due to the increase in.
a) Reverse saturation current
b) Reverse leakage current
c) Bias voltage
d) Barrier voltage
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Breakdown voltage of the diode is inversely proportional to the reverse leakage current so
it decreases with the increase in reverse leakage current.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Diode Resistance”.

1. The static resistance R of the diode is given by __________


a) V/I
b) V*I
c) V+I

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d) V-I
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: According to Ohms law the electric current in the circuit is directly proportion to
voltage and inversely proportional to resistance so, R=V/I.

2. In the volt ampere characteristics of the diode, the slope of the line joining the operating point
to the origin at any point is equal to reciprocal of the _________
a) resistance
b) conductance
c) voltage
d) current
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: In the diode’s volt ampere characteristics, the line joining the operating point and
the origin, at any point of the line is equal to the conductance so, it is reciprocal of the resistance.

3. At room temperature (VT = 26) what will be the approximate value of r when n=1 and
I=100mA?
a) 26 ohms
b) 2.6 ohms
c) 260 ohms
d) 2600 ohms
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: We know that R= (n*VT) /I, by substituting the value of n, VT, I we get R= 260
ohms, (1*26)/100*10-3 = 260 ohms.

4. In the diode volt ampere characteristics what will be the resistance if a slope is drawn between
the voltages 50 to 100 and corresponding current 5 to 10?
a) 5 ohms
b) 10 ohms
c) 50 ohms
d) 100 ohms
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: We know that, in volt ampere characteristics the resistance is equal to the reciprocal

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of the line joining the origin and operating point, R = dV/dI, by substituting the value of dV and
dI we get R= 10ohms.

5. In piecewise linear characteristics what will be the RF value if the slope is 0.5?
a) 25 m ohms
b) 50 m ohms
c) 2 ohms
d) 10 ohms
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: In piecewise linear characteristics the forward resistance will be equal to reciprocal
of the slope so, RF = 1/slope, RF = 1/0.5 which is equal to 2 ohms.

6. A diode will behave as an open circuit if the voltage in the circuit is less than __________
a) cut off voltage
b) saturation voltage
c) leakage voltage
d) threshold voltage
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The diode made up of semiconductor has a certain threshold voltage only after
which it behave as closed circuit in the sense it performs some operation if the threshold voltage
is greater than the voltage in circuit.

7. What will be the approximate value of thermal voltage of diode?


a) 25mV at 300K
b) 30mV at 180K
c) 25mV at 180K
d) 30mV at 300K
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: We know that the thermal voltage of diode is approximately equal to room
temperature which is 300K then for all practical purpose the thermal voltage of diode is taken as
25mV so it will be 25mV at 300K.

8. What will be the thermal voltage of the diode if the temperature is 300K?
a) 25.8 mV
b) 50 mV
c) 50V

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d) 19.627 mV
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The thermal voltage of the diode is given by, VT = KT/q, by substituting the values
of T, K which is Boltzmann constant and q which is the charge of the electron we get VT =
(300*1.38*10-23)/ (1.602*10-19), VT= 25.8mV.

9. What will be the diode resistance if the current in the circuit is zero?
a) 0 ohms
b) 0.7 ohms
c) 0.3 ohms
d) 1 ohms
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: When the current in the circuit is zero there will be no flow of charges to resist
hence the diode resistance will be zero.

10. Which of these following is not a characteristic of an ideal diode?


a) Perfect conductor when forward bias
b) Zero voltage across it when forward bias
c) Perfect insulator when reverse bias
d) Zero current through it when forward bias
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The diode acts as an ideal diode when it is a perfect conductor and has zero voltage
across it during forward bias, a perfect insulator and zero current through it during reverse bias.

143
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Diode Capacitances”.

1. Compared to a PN junction with NA=1014/CM3, which one of the following is true for
NA=ND= 1020/CM3?
a) depletion capacitance decreases
b) depletion capacitance increases
c) depletion capacitance remains same
d) depletion capacitance can’t be predicted
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: We know, CT=Aε/W and
W ∝ (1/NA+1/ND) 1/2. So, CT ∝ (1/NA+1/ND)-1/2
So when NA and ND increases, depletion capacitance CT increases.

2. If CT is the transition capacitance, which of the following are true?


1) in forward bias, CT dominates
2) in reverse bias, CT dominates
3) in forward bias, diffusion capacitance dominates
4) in reverse bias, diffusion capacitance dominates
a) 1 only
b) 2only
c) 2 and 3
d) 3 only
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: In reverse bias condition, depletion region increases and acts as an insulator or
dielectric medium. So, the transition capacitance increases. In forward bias condition, due to
stored charge of minority carriers, diffusion capacitance increases.

3. For an abrupt PN junction diode, small signal capacitance is 1nF/cm2 at zero bias condition.If
the built in voltage, Vbi is 1V, the capacitance at reverse bias of 99V is?
a) 0.1nF/cm2

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b) 1nF/cm2
c) 1.5nF/cm2
d) 2nF/cm2
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Cjo is the capacitance at zero bias, that is VR=0V, Cjo=Cj for VR=0V. We know, Cj
= Cjo/(1+(VR/Vbi))m , m=1/2 for abrupt. So, putting Cj=0.1nF/cm2 where, VR=99V and Vbi=1V
we get, Cjo= 0.1(1+99)1/2 = 0.1nF/cm2.

4. The built in capacitance V0 for a step graded PN junction is 0.75V. Junction capacitance Cj at
reverse bias when VR=1.25V is 5pF. The value of Cj when VR=7.25V is?
a) 0.1pF
b) 1.7pF
c) 1pF
d) 2.5Pf
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: We know, Cj1/ Cj2=[(V0+VR2)/(V0+VR2)]1/2
So, Cj2=Cj1/ {(0.75+7.25)/(0.75+1.25)}1/2 we get Cj2=Cj1 /2 =5/2=2.5Pf.

5. Consider an abrupt PN junction. Let V0 be the built in potential of this junction and VR be the
reverse bias voltage applied. If the junction capacitance Cj is 1pF for V0+VR =1V, then for
V0+VR =4V what will be the value of Cj?
a) 0.1pF
b) 1.7pF
c) 1pF
d) 0.5Pf
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: We know, Cj1/ Cj2=[(V0+VR2)/(V0+VR1)]1/2
Cj2=Cj1(1/4)1/2=1/2 .
We get Cj2=1/2=0.5pF.

6. A silicon PN junction diode under revers bias has depletion width of 10µm, relative
permittivity is 11.7 and permittivity, ε0 =8.85×10-12F/m. Then depletion capacitance /m2 =?
a) 0.1µF/m2
b) 1.7µF/m2
c) 10µF/m2

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d) 0.5µF/m2
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: We know, CT =Aε0εr /W
CT/A= (8.85×10-12)(11.7)/10
=10
By putting the values we get 10µF/m2.

7. The transition capacitance, CT of a PN junction having uniform doping in both sides, varies
with junction voltage as ________
a) (VB )1/2
b) (VB )-1/2
c) (VB )1/4
d) (VB )-1/4
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: CT = K/(V0+VB)1/2
As it’s having uniform doping on both sides, the voltage V0 will be zero. So, CT=K/(VB)1/2. The
variation of transition capacitance with built in capacitance is (VB )-1/2.

8. The CT for an abrupt PN junction diode is ________


a) CT = K/(V0+VB)1/2
b) CT = K/(V0+VB)-1/2
c) CT = K/(V0+VB)1/3
d) CT = K/(V0+VB)-1/3
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: For an abrupt PN junction diode, CT = K/(V0+VB)n. Here, n=1/2 for abrupt PN
junction diode and 1/3 for linear PN junction diode. When the doping concentration of a diode
varies within a small scale of area, then the diode is called as an abrupt diode.

9. The diffusion capacitance of a PN junction _______


a) decreases with increasing current and increasing temperature
b) decreases with decreasing current and increasing temperature
c) increasing with increasing current and increasing temperature
d) doesnot depend on current and temperature
View Answer

146
Answer: b
Explanation: CD =τ I /n0 VT
Where, I is the current and VT is temperature factor. The diffusion capacitance is directly
proportional to current and indirectly proportional to the temperature.

10. Transition capacitance is also called as _______


a) diffusion capacitance
b) depletion capacitance
c) conductance capacitance
d) resistive capacitance
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Transition capacitance occurs in reverse bias. We obtain a depletion layer in that
case. Hence it’s also called as depletion capacitance. The diffusion capacitance occurs in forward
bias.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “PN Diode Switching Times”.

1. Diode acts as a short circuit when switched from forward to reverse bias for some time due
to______
a) Accumulation of minority charge carriers when it’s in forward bias
b) Accumulation of majority charge carriers when it’s in forward bias
c) Accumulation of minority charge carriers when it’s in reverse bias
d) Accumulation of majority charge carrier when it’s in reverse bias
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: When a diode is switched suddenly, it persists the conducting property for a short
time in its reverse bias also. This leads to excess minority charge carrier settlement at potential
barrier. Hence acts as a short circuit.

2. Reverse recovery time for a diode is?


a) Time taken to eliminate excess minority charge carriers
b) Sum of storage time (TS) and transition time (TT)

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c) Time taken to eliminate excess majority charge carriers
d) Time elapsed to return to non conduction state
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The time period for which diode remains in conduction state even in reverse
direction is called storage time. The time elapsed to return the non conduction state is called
transition time. Their sum is called reverse recovery time.

3. Switching speed of P+ junction depends on.


a) Mobility of minority carriers in P junction
b) Life time of minority carriers in P junction
c) Mobility of majority carriers in N junction
d) Life time of minority carriers in N junction
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Switching leads to move holes in P region to N region as minority carriers.
Removal of this accumulation determines switching speed. P+ regards to a diode in which the p
type is doped excessively.

4. Time taken for a diode to reach 90% of its final value when switched from steady state
is______
a) 2.3*time constant
b) 2.2*time constant
c) 1.5*time constant
d) equals the time constant
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Time constant = RC. To reach 90% of the final value, time taken is 2.2 of RC. Time
constant is the time required to discharge the capacitor, through the resistor, by 36.8%.

5. Which of the following are true?


1) In reverse bias, the diode undergoes stages of storage and transition times
2) Minority charge carriers accumulation makes the diode as a short circuit
3) Storage time is the sum of recovery and transition times
a) 1 only
b) 2 and 3
c) 3 only
d) 1 and 2 only
View Answer

148
Answer: d
Explanation: When a diode is switched from forward to reverse bias, storage and transition times
takes place. The accumulation time or the life time of minority carriers makes it a short circuit.
The conduction property is holds for a short period of time in reverse bias also.

6. In a circuit below, the switch is at position 1 at t<0 and at position 2 when t=0. Assume diode
has zero voltage drop and storage time. For 0<t<ts, the VR at 1k ohm resistor is given by_____

a) 5V
b) -5V
c) 0v
d) 10V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: At position ‘1’ when connected to +5V, the diode is forward biased and acts as a
short circuit. So, VR is 5V. For 0<t<ts VR is -5V as the diode is in reverse bias. But it holds the
conductive property within the storage time period. So, V is -5V.

7. The switch is at position shown in the figure initially and steady state is from t=0 to t=to. The
switch suddenly is thrown to the other position. The current flowing through the 10K resistor
from t=0 is?

149
a) 1mA
b) 2mA
c) -2mA
d) -1mA
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Initially, the diode is in forward bias. When suddenly switched to reverse bias, upto
a storage time limit, it conducts during storage time period.
We know that, current I=V/R=-20/10K=-2mA.

8. A PN junction diode with 100Ω resistor is forward biased such that 100A current flows. If
voltage across this combination is instantaneously reversed to 10V at t=0, the reverse current that
flows through diode at t=0 is?

a) 10mA

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b) 100mA
c) -100mA
d) -10mA
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: At t=0, V=-10V. During storage time, current still flows.
We know that,
current I=V/R=10/100Ω=100mA from N to P region.

9. The delay in switching between the ON and OFF states is due to _________
a) The time required to change amount of excess minority carriers stored in quasi-neutral regions
b) The time required to change amount of excess majority carriers stored in quasi-neutral regions
c) The conduction between storage time and recovery time
d) The exponential increase in carriers in N region
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: When switched instantaneously it stays in a quasi state i.e.., temporary state which
stores charges. The delay is produced due to this charge settlement. The diode needs to discharge
these excess carriers in order to return the non conduction stage.

10. The delay time can be reduced by?


a) decreasing lifetime and increasing ratio of reverse to forward current
b) increasing lifetime and decreasing ratio of reverse to forward current
c) increasing lifetime and increasing ratio of reverse to forward current
d) decreasing lifetime and decreasing ratio of reverse to forward current
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: When the current increases the depletion layer decreases and the storage and
transition time decreases. A decreased depletion layer can easily discharge the excess carrier and
thereby lessens the delay time.

151
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Breakdown Diodes”.

1. A zener diode works on the principle of_________


a) tunneling of charge carriers across the junction
b) thermionic emission
c) diffusion of charge carriers across the junction
d) hopping of charge carriers across the junction
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Due to zener effect in reverse bias under high electric field strength, electron
quantum tunneling occurs. It’s a mechanical effect in which a tunneling current occurs through a
barrier. They usually cannot move through that barrier.

2. Which of the following are true about a zener diode?


1) it allows current flow in reverse direction also
2) it’s used as a shunt regulator
3) it operates in forward bias condition
a) 3 only
b) 1 and 2
c) 2 and 3
d) 2 only
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The operation of a zener diode is made in reverse bias when breakdown occurs. So,
it allows currnt in reverse direction. The most important application of a zener diode is voltage or
shunt regulator.

3. When the voltage across the zener diode increases_________


a) temperature remains constant and crystal ions vibrate with large amplitudes
b) temperature increases and crystal ions vibrate with large amplitudes
c) temperature remains constant and crystal ions vibrate with smaller amplitudes
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d) temperature decreases and crystal ions vibrate with large amplitudes
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: When voltage is increased, the tunnelling at reverse bias increases. The voltage
rises temperature. The crystal ions with greater thermal energy tend to vibrate with larger
amplitudes.

4. For the zener diode shown in the figure, the zener voltage at knee is 7V, the knee current is
negligible and the zener dynamic resistance is 10Ω. If the input voltage (Vi) ranges from 10 to 16
volts, the output voltage (Vo) ranges from?

a) 7 to 7.29V
b) 6 to 7V
c) 7.14 to 7.43V
d) 7.2 to 8V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: If i is the current flowing, then V0=10i+7
i=(VI-7)/210. By substituting, if VI=10V then i=1/70 and V0=(1/7)+7=7.14V
if VI =16V then i=3/70 and V0=(3/7)+7=7.43V.

5. In the circuit below, the knee current of ideal zener diode is 10mA. To maintain 5V across the
RL, the minimum value of RL is?

153
a) 120
b) 125
c) 250
d) 100
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Here, IKNEE=10mA, VZ=5V. I=IL+IZ. I= (10-5)/100=50mA
Now, 50=10+ILMAX .
ILMAX=40mA. RLMIN=5/40mA=125 Ω.

6. The zener diode in the circuit has a zener voltage of 5.8V and knee current of 0.5mA. The
maximum load current drawn with proper function over input voltage range between 20 and 30V
is?

a) 23.7mA
b) 20mA
c) 26mA
d) 48.3mA
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Here, I1MAX=IZMIN+ILMAX.

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IZMIN =0.5mA, I1MAX =(V1MAX-VZ )/RS . Putting the values we get , I1MAX =24.2mA.
So, 24.2-0.5=23.7mA.

7. In the given limiter circuit, an input voltage Vi=10sin100πt is applied. Assume that the diode
drop is 0.7V when it’s forward biased. The zener breakdown voltage is 6.8V.The maximum and
minimum values of outputs voltage are _______

a) 6.1V,-0.7V
b) 0.7V,-7.5V
c) 7.5V,-0.7V
d) 7.5V,-7.5V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: With VI= 10V when maximum, D1 is forward biased, D2 is reverse biased. Zener is
in breakdown region. VOMAX=sum of breakdown voltage and diode drop=6.8+0.7=7.5V.
VOMIN=negative of voltage drop=-0.7V. There will be no breakdown voltage here.

8. The 6V Zener diode shown has zener resistance and a knee current of 5mA. The minimum
value of R so that the voltage does not drop below 6V is?

a) 1.2Ω
b) 80 Ω
c) 50 Ω
d) 70 Ω
View Answer

155
Answer: b
Explanation: Here, Vz =6V, IZMIN=5mA.IS=IZMIN+ILMAX.
80=5+ILMAX . ILMAX=75Ma.RLMIN=VI/ILMAX=6/75mA
=80 Ω.

9. Avalanche breakdown in zener diode is ______


a) electric current multiplication takes place
b) phenomenon of voltage multiplication takes place
c) electrons are decelerated for a period of time
d) sudden rise in voltage takes place.
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The carriers in transition region are accelerated by electric field to energies. That
energies are sufficient to create electron current multiplication. A single carrier that is energized
will collide with another by gaining energy. Thus an avalanche multiplication takes place.

10. The zener diode is heavily doped because______


a) to have low breakdown voltage
b) to have high breakdown voltage
c) to have high current variations
d) to maintain perfect quiescent point
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The value of reverse breakdown voltage at which zener breakdown occurs is
controlled by amount of doping. If the amount of doping is high, the value of voltage at which
breakdown occurs will decrease. Better doping gives a sooner breakdown voltage.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Tunnel Diodes and its Characteristics”.

1. If ‘X’ corresponds to a tunnel diode and ‘Y’ to an avalanche diode, then__________


a) X operates in reverse bias and Y operates in forward bias
b) X operates in reverse bias and Y operates in reverse bias
c) X operates in forward bias and Y operates in forward bias
d) X operates in forward bias and Y operates in reverse bias
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: In forward bias, negative resistance helps for tunnel diode to operate. Here, the current
decreases with increase in voltage. If they are used in reverse bias, they are called as back diodes.
Avalanche diode operates in reverse bias at breakdown region.

156
2. The range of tunnel diode voltage VD, for which slope of its V-I characteristics is negative would be?
(The VP is the peak voltage and VV is the valley voltage).

a) VD > 0
b) 0<vD < VP
c) VV > VD > VP
d) VD > VV
View Answer</v

Answer: c
Explanation: In tunnel diode characteristics, the slope is negative in the region
between VV and VP. Here, it offers negative resistance. The characteristics are

depicted below:

3. Tunnel diode has a very fast operation in__________


a) gamma frequency region
b) ultraviolet frequency region
c) microwave frequency region
d) radio frequency region
View Answer

157
Answer: c
Explanation: Tunnel diode is a type of semiconductor which works on tunneling
effect of electrons in microwave region. So, tunnel diode has a very fast
operation in microwave region.

4. Which of the following are true about a tunnel diode?


1) it uses negative conductance property
2) it operates at high frequency
3) fermilevel of p side becomes higher than the n side in forward bias
a) 1 only
b) 1 and 2
c) 3 only
d) 2 and 3
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The negative resistance property helps in the operation of tunnel
diode. As the tunnel diode works at high frequency, its applications are mostly
in that range. High frequency oscillators are based on the resonant tunneling
diode.

5. The depletion layer of tunnel diode is very small beacause______


a) its abrupt and has high dopants
b) uses positive conductance property

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c) its used for high frequency ranges
d) tunneling effect
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: When the P and N regions are very highly doped, the depletion
layer comes closer. The tunnel diode is also highly doped. Its doping
concentration varies within a small scale. So it’s an abrupt diode. For these
reasons, the depletion region is small.

6. With interments of reverse bias, the tunnel current also increases


because________
a) electrons move from balance band of pside to conduction band of nside
b) fermi level of pside becomes higher than that of nside
c) junction currrent decreases
d) unequality of n and p bandedge
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: When the forward bias is increased, the tunnel current is also
increased upto a certain limit. This happens when the electron movement takes
place from P to N side.

7. The tunnneling involves_______


a) acceleration of electrons in p side
159
b) movement of electrons from n side conduction band to p side valance band
c) charge distribution managementin both the bands
d) positive slope characteristics of diode
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Tunneling means a direct flow of electrons across small depletion
region from N side conduction band to P side valance band. The electrons begin
to accelerate in the N side of the semiconductor.

8. Tunnel diodes are made up of________


a) Germanium and silicon materials
b) AlGaAs
c) AlGaInP
d) ZnTe
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Germanium and silicon materials have low band gaps and
flexibility. That matches tunnel diode requirements. The remaining materials
emits the energy in terms of light or heat.

9. For a tunnel diode, when ‘p’ is probability that carrier crosses the barrier, ’e’
is energy,’w’ is width.
(-A*e*w)
a) p ∝ e
160
(-A*e*w)
b) p ∝ 1/ e
(A*e*w)
c) p ∝ e
(A*e*w)
d) p ∝ 1/e
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The carrier jump occurs without any loss of energy due to small
depletion layer. The probability of the carrier to jump across a barrier depends
on the energy and width of the band. This variess exponentially for a given
carrier.

10. In the construction of tunnnel diode,why is the pellet soldered to anode


contact and a tindot to cathode contact via a mesh screen?
a) for better conduction and reduce inductance respectively
b) for heat dissipation and increase conduction respectively
c) for heat dissipation and reduce induction respectively
d) for better conduction and reduce inductance respectively
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Anode goes through better heat dissipation. So the pellet is used
for the purpose. The tindot via mesh screen resists inductive effects caused at
the cathode. Conduction is an independent factor which can’t be controlled.

161
11. What happens to a tunnel diode when the reverse bias effect goes beyond
the valley point?
a) it behaves as a normal diode
b) it attains increased negative slope effects
c) reverse saturation current increases
d) beacomes independent of temperature
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: After the valley point is crossed, the tunnel diode obtains positive
slope resistance. That is similar to the characteristics of a normal diode. So it
behaves like a normal diode after beyond valley point.

162
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “p-i-n Diode and its Characteristics”.

1. PIN diode is a photosensitive diode because of _______


a) large current flow in p and n region
b) depletion layer increases giving a larger surface area
c) stronger covalent bonds
d) low carrier storage
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: An intrinsic layer that is sandwiched between p and n layers. This gives a larger
surface area making it compatible for photosensitivity. Reverse bias causes an increased depleted
region in a PIN diode.

2. During forward bias, the PIN diode acts as _______


a) a variable resistor
b) a variable capacitor
c) a switch
d) an LED
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: In forward bias, the forward resistance decreases and acts as a variable resistor. The
low frequency model of a PIN diode neglects the input capacitive values.

3. During reverse bias, the PIN diode acts as _______


a) Variable resistor
b) Switch
c) Variable capacitor
d) LED
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: In reverse bias, the intrinsic layer is completely covered by depletion layer. The
stored charges vanishes acting like a variable capacitor. The high frequency model of a PIN
diode neglects the input resistances.

163
4. When the p and n regions are used for high resistivity, the depletion region at the respective
places is called _________
a) Q and ϒ regions
b) ϒ and π regions
c) Q and π regions
d) π and ϒ regions
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: When p region is used for high resistance, the depletion layer is high at p
side.When n side is used the depletion layer is high at n side. They are called as π and ϒ regions
respectively.

5. The applications for PIN diode are __________


a) Microwave switch
b) LED
c) Voltage regulator
d) Amplifier
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Being employed at 300Hz, the swept voltage is attained at π region.Then it’s used
as a microwave switch. Swept voltage is nothing but, the voltage at which the complete intrinsic
layer is swept out as a depleted one.

6. In high frequency model, the values of resistance ‘R’ and capacitance ‘C’ are _______
a) 0.1 to 10KΩ and 0.02 to 2pF respectively
b) 1 to 10KΩ and 0.02 to 2pF respectively
c) 10 to 100KΩ and 0.02 to 2pF respectively
d) 0.1 to 10KΩ and 2 to 20pF respectively
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: At high frequency, the applied values for resistance and capacitance is 0.1 to 10KΩ
and 0.02 to 2pF respectively. At high frequencies, it almost acts as a perfect resistor.

7. What happens in PIN diode for low frequency model?


a) reactance decreases
b) conductance increases
c) resistance increases
d) reactance increases
View Answer

164
Answer: d
Explanation: In a low frequency model, the resistance decreases and reactance increases.Here the
variable resistance is neglected. At low frequencies, the charge can be removed and the diode
can be turned off.

8. Which of the following is true about a PIN diode?


a) it’s photosensitive in reverse bias
b) it offers low resistance and low capacitance
c) it has a decreased reversed breakdown voltage
d) carrier storage is low
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Due to increased depletion region, the covalent bonds break and increase the
surface area for photosensitivity. This property is used in fields of light sensors, image scanners,
artificial retina systems.

9. In the application of frequency models, the value of forward current is _____


a) IF = A(µPP + µNN)q
b) IF = A(µPN + µNP)q
c) IF = A(µPP – µNN)q
d) IF = A(µPN – µNP)q
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The forward current depends on mobility and carrier concentration. In frequency
models, the value of forward current is IF = A*(µPP + µNN)q. Where, µP and µN are the mobility
of p and n type charge carriers respectively.

10. The forward resistance for a PIN diode is given by ________


a) RF = W/σP
b) RF = W/σN
c) RF = WσP
d) RF = WσN
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Forward resistance for a PIN diode depends on the width, current density and
positive carrier concentration of the diode. No diode is perfectly ideal. In practise, a diode offers
a small resistance in forward bias which is called as forward resistance.

165
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “The Point Contact Diode”.

1. The materials that are used in the construction of point contact diode are _________
a) Silicon
b) SnTe or Bi2Te3
c) GaS or CdS
d) HgI
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The diode base of SnTe or Bi2Te3 is highly detection sensitive. They are
mechanically stable over long periods of use either as harmonic generators or mixers. They are
emphasized in the 2-200THz region.

2. Which of the following are true?


1) point contact diode has a metal whisker to make pressure contact during its operation
2) it has high voltage rating
3) its V-I characteristics are constant
4) it has low breakdown voltage
a) 1 and 2
b) 3 only
c) 1 and 4
d) 2 only
View Answer

166
Answer: c
Explanation: The diode contains a die of a semiconductor material on which an epitaxial layer is
deposited. It uses the metal whisker to make pressure contact against that layer. It has a low
breakdown voltage.

3. In the forward bias condition, the resistance of point contact diode is_________
a) less than that of a general PN diode
b) greater than that of a general PN diode
c) equal to that of a general PN diode
d) varies exponentially than that of a general PN diode
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The current flow of the point contact diode is not independent of voltage applied to
the crystal unlikely to a general PN diode. This characteristic of contact diode makes its
capacitance high at high frequency. A small capacitive current flows in the circuit.

4. The barrier layer capacitance of a point contact diode is_________


a) 0.1pF to 1pF
b) 5pF to 50pF
c) 0.2pF to 2pF
d) 0.008µF to 20µF
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The barrier capacitance at the point is very low about 0.1pF to 1pF. The
capacitance between the cat whisker and crystal is less compared to junction diode capacitance
between both sides of the diode. For a general PN diode is 0.008µF to 20µF.

5. The cat whisker wire present in the contact diode is used for_________
a) for heat dissipation
b) for charge transfer between sections
c) maintaining the pressure between sections
d) preventing current flow
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The operation of a contact diode depends on the pressure of contact between
semiconductor crystal and point. The cat whisker wire presses against the crystal to form a
section and the section allows the current flow. This is similar to the behaviour of PN diode.

167
6. The semiconductor junctions those are present in a contact diode_________
a) beryllium-copper and bronze-phosphor
b) beryllium-phosphor and bronze-copper
c) mercury-iodine
d) tin-tungsten
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The diode contains two sections having a small rectangular crystal of N type silicon
and a fine beryllium-copper and bronze-phosphor. It has a tungsten wire which is called as a cat
whisker wire. This helps in pressing one section to other.

7. The application of a contact diode is_________


a) Clampers and clippers
b) Voltage multipliers
c) Rectifiers
d) AM detectors
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The point contact diodes are the oldest microwave semiconductor devices. They
were developed during world war 2. They have excessive applications in microwave fields and
used as receivers and detectors.

8. The operating frequencies of the point contact diode is_________


a) 30KHz or above
b) 10GHz or above
c) 30GHz or above
d) 10KHz or above
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: It’s used in high frequency conversions and circuits in the order of 10KHz or
above. The reactance due to capacitance is high and at high frequency a very small capacitive
current flows.

9. During the manufacture of point contact diode, why is a relatively large current passed from
cat whisker to silicon crystal?
a) to control the amount of current flow
b) to form small region of p type material
c) to allow mechanical support for the sections

168
d) to form anode and cathode regions
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The behaviour of a contact diode is similar to that of a PN diode. It has a tungsten
wire which is called as a cat whisker wire. This helps in pressing one section to other.

10. What is the capacitive reactance across the point contact diode when compared to normal PN
junction diode
a) lower
b) higher
c) equal
d) cannot be determined
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The current flow of the point contact diode is not independent of voltage applied to
the crystal unlikely to a general PN diode. A small capacitive current flows in the circuit.

4. Questions on Diodes

The section contains questions on basics of diode, types of diodes which includes zener diode
and others, limiting and clamping circuits, rectifiers and characteristics of junction diode and
diode forward characteristic modelling.

The Ideal Diode Rectifiers


Modelling the Diode Forward Characteristic Limiting and Clamping Circuits and Some Special

169
Zener Diode Types of diodes
Diode Circuits

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “The Ideal Diode”.

170
1. For an ideal diode which of the following is true?
a) It allows the passage of current in the forward bias with zero potential drop across the diode
b) It does not allow the flow of current in reverse bias
c) All of the mentioned
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Both of the facts mentioned hold true for an ideal operational amplifier.

2. Consider an AC sine wave voltage signal being used to connect a diode and a resistor as
shown in the figure. The variation of the voltage across the diode (Vd) with respect to time (t) is
given by

a)

b)

171
c)
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Vd = Vi – Vo.

3. The figure below shows a circuit for charging a 12-V battery. If Vs is a sinusoid with 24-V
peak amplitude, the fraction of each cycle during which the diode conducts is

a) One quarter of a cycle


b) One-third of a cycle
c) One half of the cycle
d) Three quarters of a cycle
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: For one half of the cycle the diode conducts when 24 cos(Θ) = 12 or Θ is 600.
Hence for a complete cycle the diode does not conducts for 2Θ or 1200. Hence the diode does not
conducts for a third of a cycle.

4. Diodes can be used in the making of


a) Rectifiers
b) LED lamps
c) Logic gates
d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

172
Answer: d
Explanation: Diodes are used to make rectifiers (full wave or half wave rectifiers are the most
common examples), LED lamps uses diodes (diodes are generally doped for their use in this
purpose) and logic gates can also be made using diodes using the fact that diodes are conducting
only in the forward biased configuration.

5. For the connections shown below, the equivalent logic gate is

a) OR gate
b) AND gate
c) XOR gate
d) NAND gate
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The following circuit behaves as a OR logic gate.

6. For the connections shown below, the equivalent logic gate is

a) OR gate
b) AND gate
c) XOR gate
d) NAND gate
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The circuit shown behaves as an AND logic gate.
173
7. The figure below shows a circuit for an AC voltmeter. It utilizes a moving-coil meter that
gives a full-scale reading when the average current flowing through it is 1 mA. The moving-coil
meter has a 50-Ω resistance. The value of R that results in the meter indicating a full-scale
reading when the input sine-wave voltage VI is 20 V peak-to-peak is

a) 3.183 kΩ
b) 3.133 kΩ
c) 3.183 Ω
d) 56.183 Ω
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Average value of input voltage= 20/π or 6.366 V.
Since there is diode half of the time there is no voltage across the voltmeter hence the average
value of the input voltage is 10/π or 3.183V.
The total resistance required to generate 1mA current is 3.183 kΩ out of which 50Ω is provided
by the moving coil. Therefore, a resistance of 3.133 kΩ is required.

8. The value of I and V for the circuit shown below are

a) 2A and 5V respectively
b) -2A and 5V respectively
c) -2A and -5V respectively
d) 2A and 0V respectively
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: I = V/R or 5/2.5 or 2A
For an ideal diode when it is conducting the potential drop across its terminal is zero.

174
9. The units frequently used to measure the forward bias and reverse bias current of a diode are
a) µA and µA respectively
b) µA and mA respectively
c) mA and µA respectively
d) mA and mA respectively
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The currents in forward bias is generally in MA and in the reverse bias it is very
small and is generally measured in µA.

10. A diode
a) Is the simplest of the semiconductor devices
b) Has a characteristic that closely follows that of a switch
c) Is two terminal device
d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Both the statements are true for a diode.

175
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Modelling the Diode Forward Characteristic”.

1. Which of the following is method to model a diode’s forward characteristics?


a) Iteration method
b) Graphical method
c) Constant-voltage drop model
d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: All of the mentioned are different methods used to model a diode’s forward
characteristics.

2. A voltage regulator needs to provide a constant voltage in spite of the fact that there may be
a) Change in the load current drawn from the terminals of the regulator
b) Change of the DC power supply that feeds the regulator circuit
c) None of the mentioned
d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Voltage regulators are required in both of the situations mentioned.

176
(Q.3-Q.4) For the circuit shown below calculate

3. Calculate the %age change in the regulated voltage caused by a change of ±10% in the input
voltage. (RL is not connected to the circuit)
a) ± 0.5%
b) ± 1%
c) ± 5%
d) ± 10%
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Current I in the circuit = (10 – 2.1) / 1 or 7.9 mA
Incremental resistance of each diode is rd = 25mV/7.9mA at room temperature or 3.2Ω
Total resistance of the diode connection = r = 9.6Ω
The series combination of R and r acts as a voltage divider, hence
▲V0 = ±r/r+R or 9.5 mA or ± 0.5%.

4. Calculate the change in the voltage when RL is connected as shown


a) -10 mA
b) -15 mA
c) -20 mA
d) -25 mA
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: When RL is connected it draws approx. 2.1v/1000 A current or 2.1 mA. Hence the
current in the diode decreases by approximately 2.1 mA. The voltage change across the diode is
thus -2.1mA * 9.6 Ω or -20mA.

177
5. The value of the diode small-signal resistance rd at bias currents of 0.1 mA is
a) 250 Ω
b) 25 Ω
c) 2.5 Ω
d) 0.25 Ω
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Thermal voltage at room temperature is 25mV and the current is 0.1mA. rd =
25mV/0.1mA or 250 Ω.

6. In many applications, a conducting diode is modeled as having a constant voltage drop,


usually approximately
a) 1 V
b) 0.1 V
c) 0.7 V
d) 7V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Normally a silicon diode has a voltage drop of 0.7V.

7. The graphical method of modeling a diode characteristics is based on


a) Iteration method
b) Constant voltage drop method
c) Small signal approximation
d) Exponential method
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Graphical method uses equations obtained in the exponential method and then the
Answer of these equations is obtained by plotting them on a graph.

8. For small-signal operation around the dc bias point, the diode is modeled by a resistance equal
to the
a) Slope of the i-v characteristics of the diode at the bias point
b) Square root of the slope of the i-v characteristics of the diode at the bias point
c) Inverse of the slope of the i-v characteristics of the diode at the bias point
d) Square root of the inverse of the slope of the i-v characteristics of the diode at the bias point
View Answer

178
Answer: d
Explanation: It is a required characteristic for small-ground operations.

9. The other name for bias point is


a) Quiescent point
b) Node point
c) Terminal point
d) Static point
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Quiescent point is also called base point. It is due to this name that is also called Q–
point.

10. In iteration method for modelling a diode the answer obtained by each subsequent iteration is
a) Is close to the true value
b) Is close to the value obtained by exponential method
c) All of the mentioned
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: True value is obtained by the exponential method and therefore both of the
statements are true.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Zener Diode”.

1. Zener diodes are also known as


a) Voltage regulators
b) Forward bias diode
c) Breakdown diode
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

179
Answer: c
Explanation: Zener diodes are used as voltage regulators but they aren’t called voltage
regulators. They are called breakdown diodes since they operate in breakdown region.

2. Which of the following is true about the resistance of a Zener diode?


a) It has an incremental resistance
b) It has dynamic resistance
c) The value of the resistance is the inverse of the slope of the i-v characteristics of the Zener
diode
d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: All of the statements are true for the resistance of the zener diode.

3. Which of the following is true about the temperature coefficient or TC of the Zener diode?
a) For Zener voltage less than 5V, TC is negative
b) For Zener voltage around 5V, TC can be made zero
c) For higher values of Zener voltage, TC is positive
d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: All of the mentioned are true for the TC of a zener diode.

4. Which of the following can be used in series with a Zener diode so that combination has
almost zero temperature coefficient?
a) Diode
b) Resistor
c) Transistor
d) MOSFET
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: If a Zener diode of TC of about -2mV is connected with a forward diode (which has
a TC of about +2mV) in series, the combination can be used to obtain a very low (close to zero)
TC.

5. In Zener diode, for currents greater than the knee current, the v-i curve is almost
a) Almost a straight line parallel to y-axis
b) Almost a straight line parallel to x-axis
c) Equally inclined to both the axes with a positive slope

180
d) Equally inclined to both the axes with a negative slope
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Note that the curve is v-I curve and not an i-v curve.

6. Zener diodes can be effectively used in voltage regulator. However, they are these days being
replaced by more efficient
a) Operational Amplifier
b) MOSFET
c) Integrated Circuits
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: ICs have been widely adapted by the industries over conventional zener diodes as
their better replacements for a voltage regulators.

7. A 9.1-V zener diode exhibits its nominal voltage at a test current of 28 mA. At this current the
incremental resistance is specified as 5 Ω. Find VZ0 of the Zener model.
a) 8.96V
b) 9.03V
c) 9.17V
d) 9.24V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: VZ = VZo + MZ IZT
9.1 = VZo + 5 * 28 * 10-3
VZo = 8.96v
VZ = VZo + 5IZ = 8.96 * 5IZ.

8. A shunt regulator utilizing a zener diode with an incremental resistance of 5 Ω is fed through
an 82-Ω resistor. If the raw supply changes by 1.0 V, what is the corresponding change in the
regulated output voltage?
a) 72.7 mV
b) 73.7 mV
c) 74.7 mV
d) 75.7 mV
View Answer

181
Answer: c

Explanation:

9. A designer requires a shunt regulator of approximately 20 V. Two kinds of Zener diodes are
available: 6.8-V devices with rz of 10 Ω and 5.1-V devices with rz of 30 Ω. For the two major
choices possible, find the load regulation. In this calculation neglect the effect of the regulator
resistance R.
a) -30mV/mA and 120mV/mA respectively
b) 30mV/mA and 60mV/mA respectively
c) -60mV/mA and +60mV/mA respectively
d) -30mV/mA and -120mV/mA respectively
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Three 6.8v zeners provide 3*6.8 = 20.4v with 3 * 10 =30Ω Resistance, neglecting
R, we have
load Regulation = -30mV/mA.
For 5.1 Zeners we need 4 diodes to provide 20.4v with 4 * 30 =120Ω Resistance.
load Regulation = -120mV/mA .

10. Partial specifications of a Zener diode is provided. VZ = 10.0 V, VZK = 9.6 V, and IZT = 50
mA. Assuming that the power rating of a breakdown diode is established at about twice the
specified Zener current (IZT), what is the power rating of each of the diodes described above?
a) 1.04 W
b) 0.104 W
c) 10.4 mW
d) 1.04 mW
View Answer

182
Answer: a

Explanation:

183
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Rectifiers”.

1. Which of the following isn’t a type of rectifier?


a) Precision Half-wave Rectifier
b) Bridge Rectifier
c) Peak Rectifier
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: All of the mentioned are different types of a rectifier.

2. For a half wave or full wave rectifier the Peak Inverse Voltage of the rectifier is always
a) Greater than the input voltage
b) Smaller than the input voltage
c) Equal to the input voltage
d) Greater than the input voltage for full wave rectifier and smaller for the half wave rectifier
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The peak input voltage is smaller than the input voltage due to the presence of
diode(s). A single diode reduces the output voltage by approximately 0.7V.

3. For a half-wave rectifier having diode voltage VD and supply input of VI, the diode conducts
for π – 2Θ, where Θ is given by
a) tan -1 VD/VI
b) tan-1 VD/VI – VI
c) sin-1 VD/VI
d) sin-1 VD/VI – VI
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The diode doesn’t conducts when VD ≥VI . Hence Θ = sin-1 (D/VI).

4. Bridge rectifier is an alternative for


a) Full wave rectifier

184
b) Peak rectifier
c) Half wave rectifier
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Bridge rectifier is a better alternative for a full wave rectifier.

5. Which of the following is true for a bridge rectifier?


a) The peak inverse voltage or PIV for the bridge rectifier is lower when compared to an
identical center tapped rectifier
b) The output voltage for the center tapped rectifier is lower than the identical bridge rectifier
c) A transistor of higher number of coil is required for center tapped rectifier than the identical
bridge rectifier
d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: All of the given statements are true for a bridge rectifier.

6. The diode rectifier works well enough if the supply voltage is much than greater than 0.7V.
For smaller voltage (of few hundreds of millivolt) input which of the following can be used?
a) Superdiode
b) Peak rectifier
c) Precision rectifier
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: For the supply voltages less than 0.7V super diodes are used.

7. A simple diode rectifier has ‘ripples’ in the output wave which makes it unsuitable as a DC
source. To overcome this one can use
a) A capacitor in series with a the load resistance
b) A capacitor in parallel to the load resistance
c) Both of the mentioned situations will work
d) None of the mentioned situations will work
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: A capacitor is parallel with a resistor can only makes ripples go away. Series
connection will become equal to an open circuit once the capacitor is fully charged.

185
8. Consider a peak rectifier fed by a 60-Hz sinusoid having a peak value Vp = 100 V. Let the
load resistance R = 10 kΩ. Calculate the fraction of the cycle during which the diode is
conducting
a) 1.06 %
b) 2.12 %
c) 3.18%
d) 4.24%
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: w Δt ~ √(2Vr/Vp)
Θ = √(2 X 2/100)
Θ = 0.2 rad or 3.18% of the cycle

(Q.9-Q.10) The op amp in the precision rectifier circuit is ideal with output saturation levels of
±12 V. Assume that when conducting the diode exhibits a constant voltage drop of 0.7 V.

9. Find V– when VI is -1V.


a) 0V
b) 0.7V
c) 1V
d) 1.7V
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: VI = -1v
Vo = 1v
VA = 1.7v
V– = 0v
Virtual gnd as negative feedback is closed through R.
VI > 0 D1 conducts D2 cutoff.
VI < 0 D2 conducts D1 cutoff.

186
V
0 ⁄ VI = -1.

10. Find V0 when VI is 2V.


a) 0V
b) 0.7V
c) 1V
d) 1.7V
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: VI = 2v
Vo = 0v
VA = -0.7v
V– = 0v
Virtual gnd as negative feedback is closed through R.
VI > 0 D1 conducts D2 cutoff.
VI < 0 D2 conducts D1 cutoff.
0 ⁄ VI = -1.
V

187
“Limiting and Clamping Circuits and Some Special Types of diodes”.

1. Which of the following circuits can be used as limiter or clamper or both?

a)

188
b)

c)
d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Each of the circuit can be either as a clamper or limiter or both.

2. The V0 vs VI curve for the below circuit is

a)

189
b)

c)

d)
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Only this curve represents the characteristics correctly.

3. For the circuit and the input signal shown which of the following is true for the output
voltage?

190
a) The output waveform is a square wave with lowest peak clamped to 0V
b) The output wave is a square wave with lowest peak clamped to -6V
c) The output waveform is a square wave with highest peak clamped to 4V
d) The output waveform is a straight line with the value of output voltage equal to 10V
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: It is a clamped capacitor circuit.

4. Which of the following is not true for the duty cycle of a waveform?
a) Duty cycles can be used to describe the percent time of an active signal in an electrical device
b) Duty cycle can be used to determine the percentage of the time a signal is active
c) 60% duty cycle means that the waveform is active for 40% of the total time
d) 50% duty cycle means that the waveform is non-active for 50% of the total time
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: 60% duty time means that a signal is active for 60% of the total time.

5. The maximum and the minimum voltage across the diode D1 respectively is

a) 2Vp and 0V respectively


b) 0V and -2Vp respectively
c) Vp and -Vp respectively

191
d) 2Vp and Vp respectively
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: It is a voltage doubler circuit.

6. Limiting and clamping circuits are employed in


a) FM transmitters
b) Television receivers and transmitter
c) Production of various signal waveforms such as trapezoidal, square or rectangular waves
d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: All of the given are uses of limiting and clamping circuits.

7. Which of the following is not true for a Schottky-Barrier Diode (SBD)?


a) It is formed by bringing metal into contact with a moderately doped n-type semiconductor
material.
b) In the SBD, current is conducted by mainly by minority carriers.
c) The forward voltage drop of a conducting SBD is lower than that of a pn-junction diode.
d) SBD are used in the design of a special form of bipolar-transistor logic circuits
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Current is conducted largely by electrons which are majority current carriers.

8. Photodiodes are part of


a) Optoelectronics
b) High Intensity Discharge
c) Low pressure Discharge
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Optoelectronics are also called photodiodes.

9. Which of the following is true for LEDs


a) The light emitted by a LED is inversely proportional to the current flowing through the diode
b) LED operate in a manner opposite to the working of the optoelectronics or photodiodes
c) LED cannot be used to generate coherent source of light

192
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The working of the optoelectronics is opposite to that of the LEDs.

10. Optoisolator is
a) A combination of LED and varactor in the same package
b) A combination of a varactor and photodiode in the same package
c) A combination of LED and a photodiode in the same package
d) A combination of photodiode and Schottky-Barrier Diode in the same package
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: By definition, an optoisolator is a package containing both LED as well as a
photodiode.

193
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Diode Circuits”.

(Q.1-Q.4) For the given circuits and input waveform determine the output waveform

194
1.

View Answer

195
Answer: d
Explanation: Diode is off when Vi < 5 and for Vi > 5, Vo = 5V.

2.

View Answer

196
Answer: c
Explanation: Diode is off when Vi + 2 > 0.

3.

View Answer

197
Answer: d
Explanation: For V1 < 4 the diode is on otherwise its off.

4.

198
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: During +ve half cycle when Vi < 8 both the diodes are off. For V1 > 8, D1 is on.
Similarly for the negative half cycle.

5. The maximum load current that can be drawn is

a) 1.4 mA
b) 2.3 mA
c) 1.8 mA
d) 2.5 mA
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: At regulated poer supply, Is = 30-9/15k or 1.4 mA. The load current will remain
less than this current.

199
6. For the circuit shown diode cutting voltage is Vin = 0. The ripple voltage is to be no more than
vrip = 4 V. The minimum load resistance, that can be connected to the output is (in kilo ohm)

a) 6.25
b) 12.5
c) 25
d) 30
View Answer

Answer: a

Explanation:

7. The circuit inside the box in fig. P3.1.31. contains only resistor and diodes. The terminal
voltage vo is
connected to some point in the circuit inside the box. The largest and smallest possible value of
vo most nearly to is respectively

a) 15 V, 6 V
b) 24 V, 0 V
c) 24 V, 6 V
d) 15 V, 9 V
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The output voltage cannot exceed the positive power supply voltage and cannot be
lower than the negative power supply voltage.

200
8. The Q-point of the zener diode in the circuit shown below is

a) (0.34 mA, 4 V)
b) (0.34 mA, 4.93 V)
c) (0.94 mA, 4 V)
d) (0.94 mA, 4.93 V)
View Answer

Answer: a

Explanation:

5. Questions & Answers on Application of Diodes

The section contains questions and answers on half-wave and full-wave rectifier, bridge and
voltmeter rectifier, inductor and capacitor filters, l-section filters, clc filters and voltage
regulation.

Half-Wave Rectifier
L-Section Filter
Full-wave Rectifier
CLC Filter
Bridge Rectifier
Voltage Regulation Using Zener Diode
Inductor Filters
The Rectifier Voltmeter
Capacitor Filters

201
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Half-Wave Rectifier”.

1. The diode in a half wave rectifier has a forward resistance RF. The voltage is Vmsinωt and the
load resistance is RL. The DC current is given by _________
a) Vm/√2RL
b) Vm/(RF+RL)π
c) 2Vm/√π

202
d) Vm/RL
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: For a half wave rectifier, the IDC=IAVG=Im/π
I= Vmsinωt/(RF+RL)=Imsinωt
Im =Vm/ RF+RL So, IDC=Im/π=Vm/(RF+RL).

2. The below figure arrives to a conclusion that _________

a) for Vi > 0, V0=-(R2/R1)Vi


b) for Vi > 0, V0=0
c) Vi < 0, V0=-(R2/R1)Vi
d) Vi < 0, V0=0
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The given op-amp is in inverting mode and this makes the output voltage to have a
phase shift of 180°. The output voltage is now negative. So, the diode 1 is reverse biased and
diode 2 is forward biased. Then output is clearly zero.

3. What is the output as a function of the input voltage (for positive values) for the given figure.
Assume it’s an ideal op-amp with zero forward drop (Di=0)

203
a) 0
b) -Vi
c) Vi
d) 2Vi
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: When the input of the inverted mode op-amp is positive, the output is negative.
The diode is reverse biased. The input appears at the output.

4. In a half wave rectifier, the sine wave input is 50sin50t. If the load resistance is of 1K, then
average DC power output will be?
a) 3.99V
b) 2.5V
c) 5.97V
d) 6.77V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The standard form of a sine wave is Vmsinωt. BY comparing the given information
with this equation, Vm =50.
Power=Vm2/RL=50*50/1000=2.5V.

5. In a half wave rectifier, the sine wave input is 200sin300t. The average value of output voltage
is?
a) 57.876V
b) 67.453V
c) 63.694V
d) 76.987V
View Answer

204
Answer: c
Explanation: Comparing with the standard equation, Vm=200V.
Average value is given by, Vavg=Vm/π.
So, 200/π=63.694.

6. Efficiency of a half wave rectifier is


a) 50%
b) 60%
c) 40.6%
d) 46%
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Efficiency of a rectifier is the effectiveness to convert AC to DC. For half wave it’s
40.6%. It’s given by, Vout/Vin*100.

7. If peak voltage for a half wave rectifier circuit is 5V and diode cut in voltage is 0.7, then peak
inverse voltage on diode will be?
a) 5V
b) 4.9V
c) 4.3V
d) 6.7V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: PIV is the maximum reverse bias voltage that can be appeared across a diode in the
given circuit, If the PIV rating is less than this value of breakdown of diode will occur. For a
rectifier, PIV=Vm-Vd=5-0.7=4.3V.

8. Transformer utilisation factor of a half wave rectifier is _________


a) 0.234
b) 0.279
c) 0.287
d) 0.453
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Transformer utilisation factor is the ratio of AC power delivered to load to the DC
power rating. This factor indicates effectiveness of transformer usage by rectifier. For a half
wave rectifier, it’s low and equal to 0.287.

205
9. If the input frequency of a half wave rectifier is 100Hz, then the ripple frequency will
be_________
a) 150Hz
b) 200Hz
c) 100Hz
d) 300Hz
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The ripple frequency of the output and input is same. This is because, one half
cycle of input is passed and other half cycle is seized. So, effectively the frequency is the same.

10. Ripple factor of a half wave rectifier is_________(Im is the peak current and RL is load
resistance)
a) 1.414
b) 1.21
c) 1.4
d) 0.48
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The ripple factor of a rectifier is the measure of disturbances produced in the
output. It’s the effectiveness of a power supply filter to reduce the ripple voltage. The ratio of
ripple voltage to DC output voltage is ripple factor which is 1.21.

206
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Full-wave Rectifier”.

1. Efficiency of a centre tapped full wave rectifier is _________


a) 50%
b) 46%
c) 70%
d) 81.2%
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Efficiency of a rectifier is the effectiveness to convert AC to DC. It’s obtained by
taking ratio of DC power output to maximum AC power delivered to load. It’s usually expressed
in percentage. For centre tapped full wave rectifier, it’s 81.2%.

2. A full wave rectifier supplies a load of 1KΩ. The AC voltage applied to diodes is 220V (rms).
If diode resistance is neglected, what is the ripple voltage?
a) 0.562V
b) 0.785V
c) 0.954V
d) 0.344V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The ripple voltage is (Vϒ)RMS=ϒVDC /100.
VDC=0.636*VRMS* √2=0.636*220* √2=198V and ripple factor ϒ for full wave rectifier is 0.482.
Hence, (Vϒ)RMS=0.482*198 /100=0.954V.

3. A full wave rectifier delivers 50W to a load of 200Ω. If the ripple factor is 2%, calculate the
AC ripple across the load.

207
a) 2V
b) 5V
c) 4V
d) 1V
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: We know that, PDC=VDC2/RL. So, VDC=(PDC*RL)1/2=100001/2=100V.
Here, ϒ=0.02
ϒ=VAC/VDC=VAC/100.So, VAC=0.02*100=2V.

4. A full wave rectifier uses load resistor of 1500Ω. Assume the diodes have Rf=10Ω, Rr=∞. The
voltage applied to diode is 30V with a frequency of 50Hz. Calculate the AC power input.
a) 368.98mW
b) 275.2mW
c) 145.76mW
d) 456.78mW
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The AC power input PIN=IRMS2(RF+Rr).
IRMS=Im/√2=Vm/(Rf+RL)√2=30/(1500+10)*1.414=13.5mA
So, PIN=(13.5*10-3)2*(1500+10)=275.2mW.

5. In a centre tapped full wave rectifier, RL=1KΩ and for diode Rf=10Ω. The primary voltage is
800sinωt with transformer turns ratio=2. The ripple factor will be _________

a) 54%
b) 48%
c) 26%
d) 81%
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The ripple factor ϒ= [(IRMS/IAVG)2 – 1]1/2. IRMS =Im

208
/√2=Vm/(Rf+RL)√2=200/1.01=198.
(Secondary line to line voltage is 800/2=400. Due to centre tap Vm=400/2=200)
IRMS=198/√2=140mA, IAVG=2*198/π=126mA. ϒ=[(140/126)2-1]1/2=0.48. So, ϒ=48%.

6. If input frequency is 50Hz for a full wave rectifier, the ripple frequency of it would be
_________
a) 100Hz
b) 50Hz
c) 25Hz
d) 500Hz
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: In the output of the centre tapped rectifier, one of the half cycle is repeated. The
frequency will be twice as that of input frequency. So, it’s 100Hz.

7. Transformer utilization factor of a centre tapped full wave rectifier is_________


a) 0.623
b) 0.678
c) 0.693
d) 0.625
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Transformer utilisation factor is the ratio of AC power delivered to load to the DC
power rating. This factor indicates effectiveness of transformer usage by rectifier. For a half
wave rectifier, it’s low and equal to 0.693.

8. In the circuits given below, the correct full wave rectifier is _________

a)

209
b)

c)

d)
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: When the input is applied, a full wave rectifier should have a current flow. The

210
flow should be in the same direction for both positive and negative half cycles. Only the third
circuit satisfies the above condition.

9. If the peak voltage on a centre tapped full wave rectifier circuit is 5V and diode cut in voltage
is 0.7. The peak inverse voltage on diode is_________
a) 4.3V
b) 9.3V
c) 5.7V
d) 10.7V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: PIV is the maximum reverse bias voltage that can be appeared across a diode in the
given circuit, if PIV rating is less than this value of breakdown of diode will occur. For a
rectifier, PIV=2Vm-Vd = 10-0.7 = 9.3V.

10. In a centre tapped full wave rectifier, the input sine wave is 250sin100t. The output ripple
frequency will be _________
a) 50Hz
b) 100Hz
c) 25Hz
d) 200Hz
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The equation of sine wave is in the form Vmsinωt. So, by comparing we get ω=100.
Frequency, f =ω/2=50Hz. The output of centre tapped full wave rectifier has double the
frequency of inpu. Hence, fout = 100Hz.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Bridge Rectifier”.

1. DC average current of a bridge full wave rectifier (where Im is the maximum peak current of
input).
a) 2Im
b) Im
c) Im/2
d) 1.414Im
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Average DC current of half wave rectifier is Im. Since output of half wave rectifier

211
contains only one half of the input. The average value is the half of the area of one half cycle of
sine wave with peak Im. This is equal to Im.

2. DC power output of bridge full wave rectifier is equal to (Im is the peak current and RL is the
load resistance).
a) 2 Im2RL
b) 4 Im2RL
c) Im2RL
d) Im2 RL/2
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: DC output power is the power output of the rectifier. We know VDC for a bridge
rectifier is 2Vm and IDC for a bridge rectifier is 2Im. We also know VDC=IDC/RL. Hence output
power is 4Im2RL.

3. Ripple factor of bridge full wave rectifier is?


a) 1.414
b) 1.212
c) 0.482
d) 1.321
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Ripple factor of a rectifier measures the ripples or AC content in the output. It’s
obtained by dividing AC rms output with DC output. For full wave bridge rectifier it is 0.482.

4. If input frequency is 50Hz then ripple frequency of bridge full wave rectifier will be equal
to_________
a) 200Hz
b) 50Hz
c) 45Hz
d) 100Hz
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Since in the output of bridge rectifier one half cycle is repeated, the frequency will
be twice as that of input frequency. So, f=100Hz.

5. Transformer utilization factor of bridge full wave rectifier _________


a) 0.623
b) 0.812

212
c) 0.693
d) 0.825
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Transformer utilization factor is the ratio of AC power delivered to load to the DC
power rating. This factor indicates effectiveness of transformer usage by rectifier. For bridge full
wave rectifier it’s equal to 0.693.

6. If peak voltage on a bridge full wave rectifier circuit is 5V and diode cut in voltage os 0.7,
then the peak inverse voltage on diode will be_________
a) 4.3V
b) 9.3V
c) 8.6V
d) 3.6V
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: PIV is the maximum reverse bias voltage that can be appeared across a diode in the
circuit. If PIV rating of diode is less than this value breakdown of diode may occur.. Therefore,
PIV rating of diode should be greater than PIV in the circuit, For bridge rectifier PIV is Vm-VD =
5-1.4=3.6.

7. Efficiency of bridge full wave rectifier is_________


a) 81.2%
b) 50%
c) 40.6%
d) 45.33%
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: It’s obtained by taking ratio of DC power output to maximum AC power delivered
to load. Efficiency of a rectifier is the effectiveness of rectifier to convert AC to DC. It’s usually
expressed inn percentage. For bridge full wave rectifier, it’s 81.2%.

8. In a bridge full wave rectifier, the input sine wave is 40sin100t. The average output voltage
is_________
a) 22.73V
b) 16.93V
c) 25.47V
d) 33.23V
View Answer

213
Answer: c
Explanation: The equation of sine wave is in the form Emsinωt.
Therefore, Em=40. Hence output voltage is 2Em=80V.

9. Number of diodes used in a full wave bridge rectifier is_________


a) 1
b) 2
c) 3
d) 4
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The model of a bridge rectifier is same as Wein Bridge. It needs 4 resistors. Bridge
rectifier needs 4 diodes while centre tap configuration requires only one.

10. In a bridge full wave rectifier, the input sine wave is 250sin100t. The output ripple frequency
will be_________
a) 50Hz
b) 200Hz
c) 100Hz
d) 25Hz
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The equation of sine wave is in the form of Emsinωt. So, ω=100 and frequency
(f)=ω/2=50Hz. Since output of bridge rectifier have double the frequency of input, f=100Hz.

214
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Inductor Filters”.

1. What is the effect of an inductor filter on a multi frequency signal?


a) Dampens the AC signal
b) Dampens the DC signal
c) To reduce ripples
d) To change the current
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Presence of inductor usually dampens the AC signal. Due to self induction induces
opposing EMF or changes in the current.

2. The ripple factor (ϒ) of inductor filter is_________


a) ϒ = RZ3/√2ωL
b) ϒ = RZ/3√2ωL
c) ϒ = RZ3√2/ωL
d) ϒ = RZ3/√2ωL
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Ripple factor will decrease when L is increased and RL. Inductor has a higher dc
resistance. It depends on property of opposing the change of direction of current.

3. The inductor filter gives a smooth output because_________


a) It offers infinite resistance to ac components
b) It offers infinite resistance to dc components
c) Pulsating dc signal is allowed
d) The ac signal is amplified
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The inductor does not allow the ac components to pass through the filter. The main
purpose of using an inductor filter is to avoid the ripples. By using this property, the inductor
offers an infinite resistance to ac components and gives a smooth output.

4. A full wave rectifier with a load resistance of 5KΩ uses an inductor filter of 15henry. The
peak value of applied voltage is 250V and the frequency is 50 cycles per second. Calculate the dc
load current.
a) 0.7mA
b) 17mA
c) 10.6mA

215
d) 20mA
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: For a rectifier with an inductor filter,
VDC=2Vm/π, Idc=VDC/RL=2Vm/RLπ
IDC=2*250/(3.14*15*103)=10.6mA.

5. The output of a rectifier is pulsating because_________


a) It has a pulse variations
b) It gives a dc output
c) It contains both dc and ac components
d) It gives only ac components
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: For any electronic devices, a steady dc output is required. The filter is used for this
purpose. The ac components are removed by using a filter.

6. A dc voltage of 380V with a peak ripple voltage not exceeding 7V is required to supply a
500Ω load. Find out the inductance required.
a) 10.8henry
b) 30.7henry
c) 28.8henry
d) 15.4henry
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Given the ripple voltage is 7V. So, 7=1.414VRMS
ϒ=VRMS/VDC=4.95/380=0.0130. ϒ=1/3√2(RL/Lω)
So, L=28.8henry.

7. The inductor filter should be used when RL is consistently small because_________


a) Effective filtering takes place when load current is high
b) Effective filtering takes place when load current is low
c) Current lags behind voltage
d) Current leads voltage
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: When RLis infinite, the ripple factor is 0.471. This value is close to that of a
rectifier. So, the resistance should be small.

216
8. The output voltage VDC for a rectifier with inductor filter is given by_________
a) (2Vm/π)-IDCR
b) (2Vm/π)+IDCR
c) (2Vmπ)-IDCR
d) (2Vmπ)+IDCR
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The inductor with high resistance can cause poor voltage regulation. The choke
resistance, the resistance of half of transformer secondary is not negligible.

9. What causes to decrease the sudden rise in the current for a rectifier?
a) the electrical energy
b) The ripple factor
c) The magnetic energy
d) Infinite resistance
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: When the output current of a rectifier increases above a certain value, magnetic
energy is stored in the inductor. This energy tends to decrease the sudden rise in the current. This
also helps to prevent the current to fall down too much.

10. A full wave rectifier with a load resistance of 5KΩ uses an inductor filter of 15henry. The
peak value of applied voltage is 250V and the frequency is 50 cycles per second. Calculate the
ripple factor (ϒ).
a) 0.1
b) 0.6
c) 0.5
d) 0.4
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: ϒ=IAC/IDC, IAC=2√2Vm/3π(RL2+4ω2L2)1/2
By putting the values, IAC=4.24Ma. VDC=2Vm/π, IDC=VDC/RL=2Vm/RL π
IDC=2*250/(3.14*15*103)=10.6mA. ϒ=4.24/10.6=0.4.

217
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Capacitor Filters”.

1. In a shunt capacitor filter, the mechanism that helps the removal of ripples is_________
a) The current passing through the capacitor
b) The property of capacitor to store electrical energy
c) The voltage variations produced by shunting the capacitor
d) Uniform charge flow through the rectifier
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Filtering is frequently done by shunting the load with capacitor. It depends on the
fact that a capacitor stores energy when conducting and delivers energy during non conduction.
Throughout this process, the ripples are eliminated.

2. The cut-in point of a capacitor filter is_________


a) The instant at which the conduction starts
b) The instant at which the conduction stops
c) The time after which the output is not filtered
d) The time during which the output is perfectly filtered
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The capacitor charges when the diode is in ON state and discharges during the OFF
state of the diode. The instant at which the conduction starts is called cut-in point. The instant at
which the conduction stops is called cut-out point.

3. The rectifier current is a short duration pulses which cause the diode to act as a_________
a) Voltage regulator
b) Mixer
c) Switch

218
d) Oscillator
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The diode permits charge to flow in capacitor when the transformer voltage
exceeds the capacitor voltage. It disconnects the power source when the transformer voltage falls
below that of a capacitor.

4. A half wave rectifier, operated from a 50Hz supply uses a 1000µF capacitance connected in
parallel to the load of rectifier. What will be the minimum value of load resistance that can be
connected across the capacitor if the ripple% not exceeds 5?
a) 114.87Ω
b) 167.98Ω
c) 115.47Ω
d) 451.35Ω
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: For a half wave filter,
ϒ=1/2√3 fCRL=1/2√3*50*10-3*RL
RL=103/5√3=115.47Ω.

5. A 100µF capacitor when used as a filter has 15V ac across it with a load resistor of 2.5KΩ. If
the filter is the full wave and supply frequency is 50Hz, what is the percentage of ripple
frequency in the output?
a) 2.456%
b) 1.154%
c) 3.785%
d) 3.675%
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: For a full wave rectifier, ϒ=1/4√3 fCRL
=1/4√3*50*10-3*2.5
=0.01154. So, ripple is 1.154%.

6. A full wave rectifier uses a capacitor filter with 500µF capacitor and provides a load current of
200mA at 8% ripple. Calculate the dc voltage.
a) 15.56V
b) 20.43V
c) 11.98V

219
d) 14.43V
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The ripple factor ϒ=IL/ 4√3 fCVDC
VDC=200*10-3/ 4√3 *50*500*8
=14.43.

7. The charge (q) lost by the capacitor during the discharge time for shunt capacitor filter.
a) IDC*T
b) IDC/T
c) IDC*2T
d) IDC/2T
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The ‘T’ is the total non conducting time of capacitor. The charge per unit time will
give the current flow.

8. Which of the following are true about capacitor filter?


a) It is also called as capacitor output filter
b) It is electrolytic
c) It is connected in parallel to load
d) It helps in storing the magnetic energy
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The rectifier may be full wave or half wave. The capacitors are usually electrolytic
even though they are large in size.

9. The rms ripple voltage (Vrms) of a shunt filter is_________


a) IDC/2√3
b) IDC2√3
c) IDC/√3
d) IDC√3
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The ripple waveform will be triangular in nature. The rms value of this wave is
independent of slopes or lengths of straight lines. It depends only on the peak value.

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10. A shunt capacitor of value 500µF fed rectifier circuit. The dc voltage is 14.43V. The dc
current flowing is 200mA. It is operating at a frequency of 50Hz. What will be the value of peak
rectified voltage?
a) 18.67V
b) 16.43V
c) 15.98V
d) 11.43V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: We know, Vm=Vdc+Idc/4fC
=14.43+ {200/ (200*500)} 103
=14.43+2=16.43V.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “L-Section Filter”.

1. An L section filter with L=2henry and C= 49µF is used in the output of a full wave single
phase rectifier that is fed from a 40-0-40 V peak transformer. The load current is 0.2A. Calculate
the output dc voltage.
a) 20.76V
b) 24.46V
c) 34.78V
d) 12.67V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Given, VL= 40V.
VDC=2/π*VL=2/π*40=25.46V.

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2. Calculate LC for a full wave rectifier which provides 10V dc at 100mA with a maximum
ripple of 2%. Input ac frequency is 50Hz.
a) 40*10-6
b) 10*10-6
c) 30*10-6
d) 90*10-6
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: LC=1/6√2ω2ϒ
ω=2πf=314
By putting the values, LC=1/6√2(314)2 0.02=40*10-6.

3. The value of inductance at which the current in a choke filter does not fall to zero
is_________
a) peak inductance
b) cut-in inductance
c) critical inductance
d) damping inductance
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: When the value of inductance is increased, a value is reached where the diodes
supplies current continuously. This value of inductance is called critical inductance.

4. The condition for the regulation curve in a choke filter is_________


a) LC≥RL/3ω
b) LC≤RL/3ω
c) L≥RL/3ω
d) LC≥RL3ω
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: IDC should not exceed the negative peak of ac component. So, the regulation curve
in direct output voltage against load current for a filter is given the relation LC≥R L/3ω.

5. The ripple factor for an l section filter is_______


a) ϒ= 1/6√2ω2LC
b) ϒ= 6√2ω2LC
c) ϒ= 6√3ω2LC
d) ϒ= 1/6√3ω2LC
View Answer

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Answer: a
Explanation: The ripple factor is the ratio of root mean square (rms) value of ripple voltage to
absolute value of dc component. It can also be expressed as the peak to peak value.

6. The output dc voltage of an LC filter is_______


a) VDC=2Vm/π + IDCR
b) VDC=Vm/π – IDCR
c) VDC=2Vm/π – 2IDCR
d) VDC=2Vm/π – IDCR
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The value for VDC is same as that of inductor filter. If inductor has no dc resistance,
then VDC=2Vm/π. If R is the series resistance of transformer, then VDC=2Vm/π – IDCR.

7. The rms value of ripple current for an L section filter is_______


a) IRMS=√2/3*XL*VDC
b) IRMS=√2/3*XL*VDC
c) IRMS=√2/3*XL *VDC
d) IRMS=√2/3*XL*VDC
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The ac current through L is determined primarily by XL=2ωL. It is directly
proportional to voltage produced and indirectly proportional to the reactance.

8. What makes the load in a choke filter to bypass harmonic components?


a) capacitor
b) inductor
c) resistor
d) diodes
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: When the capacitor is shunted across the load, it bypasses the harmonic
components. This is because it offers low reactance to ac ripple component. In another hand the
inductor offers high impedance to harmonic terms.

9. The ripple to heavy loads by a capacitor is_______


a) high
b) depends on temperature
c) low

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d) no ripple at all
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Ripple factor is inversely proportional to load resistance for a capacitor filter.
So, the ripples that are produced are low when the load is high.

10. In a choke l section filter_______


a) the inductor and capacitor are connected across the load
b) the inductor is connected in series and capacitor is connected across the load
c) the inductor is connected across and capacitor is connected in series to the load
d) the inductor and capacitor are connected in series
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The choke filter is sometimes also called as L section filter because the inductor
and capacitor are connected in the shape ’L’ or inverted manner. But several sections of this
choke filter are employed to smooth the output curve and make it free from ripples.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “CLC Filter”.

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1. What is the number of capacitors and inductors used in a CLC filter?
a) 1, 2 respectively
b) 2, 1 respectively
c) 1, 1 respectively
d) 2, 2 respectively
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: A very smooth output can be obtained by a filter consisting of one inductor and two
capacitors connected across each other. They are arranged in the form of letter ‘pi’. So, these are
also called as pi filters.

2. Major part of the filtering is done by the first capacitor in a CLC filter because _________
a) The capacitor offers a very low reactance to the ripple frequency
b) The capacitor offers a very high reactance to the ripple frequency
c) The inductor offers a very low reactance to the ripple frequency
d) The inductor offers a very high reactance to the ripple frequency
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The CLC filters are used when high voltage and low ripple frequency is needed
than L section filters. The capacitor in a CLC filter offers very low reactance to the ripple
frequency. So, maximum of the filtering is done by the first capacitor across the L section part.

3. At f=50Hz, the ripple factor of CLC filter is_________


a) ϒ=5700RL / (LC1C2)
b) ϒ=5700/ (LC1C2RL)
c) ϒ=5700LC1/ (C2RL)
d) ϒ=5700C1C2/ (LRL)
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The ripple factor of a rectifier is the measure of disturbances produced in the
output. It’s the effectiveness of a power supply filter to reduce the ripple voltage. The ratio of
ripple voltage to DC output voltage is ripple factor which is 5700 / (LC1C2RL) at 50Hz.

4. A single phase full wave rectifier makes use of pi section filter with 10µF capacitors and a
choke of 10henry. The secondary voltage is 280V and the load current is 100mA. Determine the
dc output voltage when f=50Hz.
a) 345V
b) 521V
c) 243V

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d) 346V
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Given, VRMS=280V
So, V¬m = 1.414*280=396V.
From theory of capacitor filter, VDC = Vm –IDC/4fC=396-0.1/ (4*50*10*10-6)=346V.

5. For a given CLC filter, the operating frequency is 50Hz and 10µF capacitors used. The load
resistance is 3460Ω with an inductance of 10henry. Calculate the ripple factor.
a) 0.165%
b) 0.142%
c) 0.178%
d) 0.321%
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: We have, ϒ=5700 / (LC1C2RL)
=5700 / (10*100*10-12*3460)
=0.165%.

6. The inductor is placed in the L section filter because_________


a) It offers zero resistance to DC component
b) It offers infinite resistance to DC component
c) It bypasses the DC component
d) It bypasses the AC component
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The inductor offers high reactance to ac component and zero resistance to dc
component. So, it blocks the ac component which cannot be bypassed by the capacitors.

7. The voltage in case of a full wave rectifier in a CLC filter is_________


a) Vϒ = IDC/2fC
b) Vϒ = IDC fC
c) Vϒ = IDC/fC
d) Vϒ = 2IDCfC
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: T he filter circuit is a combination of capacitors and inductors. The RMS value
depends on the peak value of charging and discharging magnitude, VPEAK.

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8. The advantages of a pi-filter is_________
a) low output voltage
b) low PIV
c) low ripple factor
d) high voltage regulation
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Due to the use of two capacitors with an inductor, an improved filtering action is
provided. This leads to decrement in ripple factor. A low ripple factor signifies regulated and
ripple free DC voltage.

9. What is the relation between time constant and load resistance?


a) They don’t depend on each other
b) They are directly proportional
c) They are inversely proportional
d) Cannot be predicted
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: If the load resistance value is large, the discharge time constant will be of a high
value. Thus the capacitors time to discharge will get over soon. This lowers the amount of ripples
in the output and increases the output voltage. If the load resistance is small, the discharge time
constant will be more with decrease in output voltage.

10. The output waveform of CLC filter is superimposed by a waveform referred to as_________
a) Square wave
b) Triangular wave
c) Saw tooth wave
d) Sine wave
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Since the rectifier conducts current only in the forward direction, any energy
discharged by the capacitor will flow into the load. This result in a DC voltage upon which is
superimposed a waveform referred to as a saw tooth wave.

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Questions and Answers for Entrance exams focuses on “Voltage Regulation Using Zener
Diode”.

1. The percentage voltage regulation (VL) is given by_________


a) (VNL-VL)/VNL*100
b) (VNL+VL)/VNL*100
c) (VNL-VL)/VL*100
d) (VNL+VL)/VL*100
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The change in the output voltage from no load to full load condition is called as
voltage regulation, where VNL is the voltage at no load condition. It is used to maintain a nearly
constant output voltage. If the regulation is high, the output voltage is stable.

2. The limiting value of the current resistor used in a Zener diode (when used as a regulator)
a) (R)min=[(Vin)max + VZ/R
b) (R)min=[(Vin)max-VZ]/R
c) (R)min=[(Vin)max-VZ]R
d) (R)min=[(Vin)max+ VZ]R
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: When the input voltage is maximum, the load current is minimum, the Zener
current should not increase the maximum rated value. Therefore there should be a minimum
value of resistor.

3. When the regulation by a Zener diode is with a varying input voltage, what happens to the
voltage drop across the resistance?
a) Decreases
b) Has no effect on voltage

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c) Increases
d) The variations depend on temperature
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: When the input voltage varies, the input current also varies. This makes more
current to flow in the diode. This increase in the current should balance a change in the load
current. Hence the voltage drop increases across the resistor.

4. In the given limiter circuit, an input voltage Vi=10sin100πt is applied. Assume that the diode
drop is 0.7V when it’s forward biased. The zener breakdown voltage is 6.8V.The maximum and
minimum values of outputs voltage are _______

a) 6.1V,-0.7V
b) 0.7V,-7.5V
c) 7.5V,-0.7V
d) 7.5V,-7.5V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: With VI= 10V when maximum, D1 is forward biased, D2 is reverse biased. Zener is
in breakdown region. VOMAX=sum of breakdown voltage and diode drop=6.8+0.7=7.5V.
VOMIN=negative of voltage drop=-0.7V. There will be no breakdown voltage here.

5. Determine the maximum and minimum values of load current for which the Zener diode shunt
regulator will maintain regulation when VIN=24V and R=500Ω. The Zener diode has a VZ=12V
and (IZ)MAX=90mA.
a) 40mA, 0mA respectively
b) 36mA, 5mA respectively
c) 10mA, 6mA respectively
d) 21mA, 0mA respectively
View Answer

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Answer: d
Explanation: The current through the resistance R is given by, I=(VIN-VZ)/R= (24-
12)/500=24mA. (IL)MAX=I-(IZ)MIN=24-3=21mA .This current is less than (IZ)MAX. So, we assume
that all the input current flows through the Zener diode. Under this condition, (IL)MIN is 0mA.

6. Determine the minimum value of load resistance that can be used in the circuit with
(IZ)Min=3mA. The input voltage is 10V and the resistance R is 500Ω. The Zener diode has a
VZ=6V 0and (IZ)MAX=90mA.
a) 1KΩ
b) 2.4KΩ
c) 1.2KΩ
d) 3.6KΩ
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The I=(VIN-VZ)/R=(10-6)/500=8mA. (IL)MAX=I-(IZ)MIN=8-3=5mA.
(RL)MIN=VZ/(IL)MAX=6/5m=1.2KΩ.

7. A Zener regulator has to handle supply voltage variation from 19.5V to 22.5V. Find the
magnitude of regulating resistance, if the load resistance is 6KΩ. The Zener diode has the
following specifications: breakdown voltage =18V, (IZ)Min=2µA, maximum power
dissipation=60mW and Zener resistance =20Ω.
a) 0 < R < 500Ω
b) 77.8 < R < 500Ω
c) 77.8 < R < 100Ω
d) 18 < R < 500Ω
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: (PZ)MAX/rZ=(IZ)MAX2 . So, (IZ)MAX =60m/20=54.8µA. IL=VO/RL=18/6000=3mA.
RMAX=(VMin-VZ)/[( IZ)Min+( IL)MAX]=(19.5-18)/(2µ+3m)=500Ω.
RMin=(VMAX-VZ)/[( IZ)MAX+( IL)Min]=(22.5-18)/(54.8m+3m)=77.8Ω.

8. A transistor series regulator has the following specifications: VIN=15V, VZ=8.3V, β=100,
R=1.8KΩ, RL=2KΩ. What will be the Zener current in the regulator circuit?
a) 4.56mA
b) 3.26mA
c) 4.56mA
d) 3.68mA
View Answer

230
Answer: d
Explanation: We know, VO=VZ-VBE=8.3-0.7=7.6V. VCE=VIN-V0=15-7.6=7.4V. So, IR=(VIN-
VZ)/R=(15-8.3)/1.8m=3.72mA. IL=VO/RL=7.6/2000=3.8mA. IB=IL/ β=3.8mA/100=0.038mA.
Finally, IZ=IR-IB=3.72-0.038=3.682mA.

9. When is a regulator used?


a) when there are small variations in load current and input voltage
b) when there are large variations in load current and input voltage
c) when there are no variations in load current and input voltage
d) when there are small variations in load current and large variations in input voltage
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The regulator has following limitations: 1.It has low efficiency for heavy load
currents 2. The output voltage changes slightly due to Zener impedance. Hence, it is used when
there are small variations in load current and input voltage.

10. A transistor in a series voltage regulator acts like a variable resistor. The value of its
resistance is determined by _______
a) emitter current
b) base current
c) collector current
d) it is not controlled by the transistor terminals
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The principle is based on the fact that a large fraction of the increase in input
voltage appears across the transistor so that the output voltage remains to be constant. When
input voltage is increased, the output voltage also increases which biases the transistor towards
less current.

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6. Questions on Transistor Characteristics

The section contains questions on transistor amplifier, transistor construction, junction transistor,
common base, emitter and collector configuration, ce and cb characteristics, dc load lines,
transistor switch and switching times.

The Junction Transistor


The CE Characteristics
The Transistor as an Amplifier
The CB Characteristics
Transistor Construction
DC Load Lines
The Common Base Configuration
Transistor as a Switch
The Common Emitter Configuration
Transistor Switching Times
The Common Collector Configuration

232
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “The Junction Transistor”.

1. The advantages over the vacuum triode for a junction transistor is_________
a) high power consumption
b) high efficiency
c) large size
d) less doping
View Answer

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Answer: b
Explanation: A junction transistor is an analogous to a vacuum triode. The main difference
between them is that a transistor is a current device while a vacuum triode is a voltage device.
The advantages of a transistor over a vacuum triode are long life, high efficiency, light weight,
smaller in size, less power consumption.

2. What is the left hand section of a junction transistor called?


a) base
b) collector
c) emitter
d) depletion region
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The main function of this section is to supply majority charge carriers to the base.
Hence it is more heavily doped in comparison to other regions. This forms the left hand section
of the transistor.

3. In an NPN transistor, the arrow is pointed towards_________


a) the collector
b) the base
c) depends on the configuration
d) the emitter
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: As regards to the symbols, the arrow head is always at the emitter. The direction
indicates the conventional direction of current flow. In case of PNP transistor, it is from base to
emitter.

4. Which of the following is true in construction of a transistor?


a) the collector dissipates lesser power
b) the emitter supplies minority carriers
c) the collector is made physically larger than the emitter region
d) the collector collects minority charge carriers
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: In most of the transistors, the collector is made larger than emitter region. This is
due to the fact that collector has to dissipate much greater power. The collector and emitter
cannot be interchanged.

234
5. In the operation of an NPN transistor, the electrons cross which region?
a) emitter region
b) the region where there is high depletion
c) the region where there is low depletion
d) P type base region
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The electrons in the emitter region are repelled by the negative terminal of the
battery towards the emitter junction. The potential barrier at the junction is reduced due to
forward bias and base region is very thin and lightly doped, electrons cross the P type base
region.

6. Which of the following are true for a PNP transistor?


a) the emitter current is less than the collector current
b) the collector current is less than the emitter current
c) the electrons are majority charge carriers
d) the holes are the minority charge carriers
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The 2 – 5% of holes is lost in recombination with electrons in the base region. The
majority charge carriers are holes for a PNP transistor. Thus the collector current is slightly less
than the emitter current.

7. In the saturated region, the transistor acts like a_________


a) poor transistor
b) amplifier
c) open switch
d) closed switch
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: In saturated mode, both emitter and collector are forward biased. The negative of
the battery is connected to emitter and similarly the positive terminals of batteries are connected
to the base. The transistor now acts like a closed switch.

8. When does the transistor act like an open switch?


a) cut off region
b) inverted region
c) saturated region

235
d) active region
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: In cut off region, both the junctions are reverse biased. The transistor has
practically zero current because the emitter does not emit charge carriers to the base. So, the
transistor acts as open switch.

9. If the emitter-base junction is forward biased and the collector-base junction is reverse biased,
what will be the region of operation for a transistor?
a) cut off region
b) saturated region
c) inverted region
d) active region
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: When the emitter-base junction is forward biased and the collector-base junction is
reverse biased, the transistor is used for amplification. A battery is connected to collector base
circuit. The positive terminal is connected to the collector while the negative is connected to the
base.

10. The transfer of a signal in a transistor is_________


a) low to high resistance
b) high to low resistance
c) collector to base junction
d) emitter to base junction
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: A forward biased emitter base junction has a low resistance path. A reversed biased
junction has a high resistance path. The weak signal is introduced in a low resistance circuit and
the output is taken from the high resistance circuit.

236
Questions and Answers for Aptitude test focuses on “The Transistor as an Amplifier”.

1. The emitter current consist of_________


a) electrons passing from collector to emitter
b) holes crossing from base to collector
c) electron current Ine constituted by electrons
d) immobile charge carriers
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The emitter current consists of two parts. It consists of hole current IpE constituted
by holes. The other part is that it consists the electron current InE constituted by electrons.

2. The total emitter current (IE) is given by_________


a) IE = IpE * InE
b) IE = IpE – InE
c) IE = IpE / InE
d) IE = IpE + InE
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The total emitter current is the sum of InE and IpE. In commercial transistors, the
doping of emitter region is made much heavier than base. Hence current by majority charge
carriers InE is negligible when compared to current by minority charge carriers IpE.

3. A common base transistor amplifier has an input resistance of 20Ω and output resistance of
100kΩ. If a signal of 400mV is applied between emitter and base, find the voltage amplification.
Assume αac to be one.
a) 20
b) 50
c) 30
d) 25
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: IE = V/R=400M/20=20mA

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IC=αIE= 1*20mA=20mA. VO=IC*RL=20m*1k=20V
Amplification, A= VO/signal voltage=20V/400m=50.

4. The amplification factor for a transistor is given by_________


a) A=αRL/re
b) A=αRLre
c) A=re/ αRL
d) A=RL/reα
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: One of the most important application of a transistor is an amplifier. A small
change in signal voltage produces an appreciable change in emitter current because the input
circuit has low resistance (α=∆IC/IE).

5. Why is the silicon mostly chosen when compared to germanium?


a) low power consumption
b) high efficiency
c) greater working temperature
d) large ICBO
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The normal working temperature of germanium is approximately 70°C .The normal
working temperature of silicon is approximately 150°C. The other advantages of using a silicon
material are, it has a smaller ICBO and its variations are smaller with temperature.

6. The change in output voltage across the load resistor for a transistor during amplification
is_________
a) RL *α*∆IE
b) RL *∆IE/α
c) RL *α2*∆IE
d) RL *α1/2*∆IE
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: A small change of voltage ∆Vi between emitter and base causes a relatively large
emitter current change ∆IE. We define by the symbol α that fraction of this current change which
is collected and passes through RL.

7. A transistor has an IC of 100mA and IB of 0.5mA. What is the value of αdc?


a) 0.565

238
b) 0.754
c) 1.24
d) 0.995
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Emitter current IE=IC+IB=100+0.5=100.5mA.
αdc=IC/IE=100/100.5=0.995.

8. A germanium transistor used as an amplifier has a collector cut off current ICBO=10µA at a
temperature 27°C and β=50. What is the collector current when the base current is 0.25mA?
a) 10.76mA
b) 13.01mA
c) 15.67mA
d) 11.88Ma
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: IC=βIB+(1+β)ICBO
IC=50*0.25/1000+51/100000=13.01mA.

9. In a PNP germanium transistor, the cut in voltage is about_________


a) -0.1V
b) -0.01V
c) -0.05V
d) -0.07V
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The cut in voltage of germanium is lower than that of silicon. If both germanium
and silicon are in parallel, Ge starts conducting earlier and stops silicon from conducting.

10. In a PNP transistor operating in active region, the main stream of current is_________
a) drift of holes
b) drift of electrons
c) diffusion of holes
d) diffusion of electrons
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The emitter-base junction is forward biased while collector-base junction is

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reversed biased. The transistor now operates in active region. Here, it can be used for
amplification purpose.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Transistor Construction”.

1. Which gas is used to fill the chamber in the grown junction type transistor construction?
a) helium
b) boron
c) nitrogen
d) oxygen
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: In the process of transistor construction, a crucible is placed in the chamber. This
chamber consists of hydrogen or nitrogen. These gases help in the prevention of oxidation. It
also contains purified Ge or Si at a temperature few degrees above its melting point.

2. In a grown junction type construction, the method used form a junction transistor is_________
a) alloy type diffusion
b) mesa type
c) speed variation method
d) fused junction type
View Answer

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Answer: c
Explanation: The grown junction may be formed by suddenly varying the rate of pulling the seed
crystal from the melt. This method is based on the fact that proportion in which N and P type
impurities crystallise i.e.., enter the grown crystal depends on the rate of pulling.

3. Which of the following methods take impurity variation method for transistor construction?
a) alloy type diffusion
b) grown junction type
c) epitaxial type
d) mesa type
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: In impurity variation method, the impurity content of the semiconductor is altered
in its type as well as the quantity. For example, in making NPN germanium grown junction
transistor, a small type of N type impurity is added to molten germanium and the crystal growth
is started.

4. Which of the following is true about grown junction type construction?


a) N type impurity is added to P type impurity
b) Boron helps in the prevention of oxidation
c) The seed is pulled to a large distance for a correct growth
d) Slow pulling leads to the formation of P type crystal
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: This method is based on the fact that proportion in which N and P type impurities
crystallise i.e.., enter the grown crystal depends on the rate of pulling. If the pulling rate is small,
a P type crystal is grown. If the pulling rate is fast, an N type crystal is grown.

5. What is the melting point of indium in alloy type transistors?


a) 300°C
b) 200°C
c) 155°C
d) 100°C
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: This is similar to soldering and PNP transistor is generally is made by this process.
In this method, first of all N type germanium is obtained. The N type wafer and indium dots are
placed in a furnace and heated to about 500°C.

241
6. The non rectifying base contact is made from_________
a) welding a strip
b) germanium
c) indium
d) graphite
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Leads for emitter and collector are soldered to the dots making non rectifying
contacts. Further, non rectifying base contact is usually made from a welding a strip or loop of
gold plated wire to the base plate.

7. What is the thickness of wafer in the alloy type transistors?


a) 1-2m inch
b) 3-5m inch
c) 5-6m inch
d) 4-7m inch
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The wafer of crystal has a 3-5m inch thickness and 80m inch square. This is placed
in a graphite jig with a dot of prepared indium. One dot of an indium is 3 times larger than the
other.

8. The larger dot of the indium is used as_________


a) base
b) emitter
c) control pin
d) collector
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The wafer is placed in a graphite jig with a dot of prepared indium. One dot of an
indium is 3 times larger than the other. Finally the larger dot is used as collector. The smaller dot
is used as emitter.

9. The electrical properties of a transistor in alloy type construction is determined by_________


a) space between the junctions in the wafer
b) proportions of N and P type impurities
c) the pulling rate of crystal
d) uniformity of the crystal lattice
View Answer

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Answer: a
Explanation: Large area collector junction helps in collecting most of the holes emitted from the
emitter ensuring that the collector current almost equals the emitter current. The spacing between
two junctions inside germanium wafer is very small and determines the electrical properties.

10. The grown junction type transistors is generally used for_________


a) PNP transistors
b) NPN transistors
c) Both transistors
d) Depends on the material used
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Grown junction type transistors are manufactured through growing single large
crystal which is slowly pulled from the melt in crystal growing furnace. This is generally used
for NPN transistors.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “The Common Base Configuration”.

1. The AC current gain in a common base configuration is_________


a) -∆IC/∆IE
b) ∆IC/∆IE
c) ∆IE/∆IC
d) -∆IE/∆IC
View Answer

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Answer: a
Explanation: The AC current gain is denoted by αac. The ratio of change in collector current to
the change in emitter current at constant collector base voltage is defined as current amplification
factor.

2. The value of αac for all practical purposes, for commercial transistors range from_________
a) 0.5-0.6
b) 0.7-0.77
c) 0.8-0.88
d) 0.9-0.99
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: For all practical purposes, αac=αdc=α and practical values in commercial
transistors range from 0.9-0.99. It is the measure of the quality of a transistor. Higher is the value
of α, better is the transistor in the sense that collector current approaches the emitter current.

3. A transistor has an IC of 100mA and IB of 0.5mA. What is the value of αdc?


a) 0.787
b) 0.995
c) 0.543
d) 0.659
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Emitter current IE=IC+IB =100+0.5=100.5mA
αdc=IC/IE=100/100.5=0.995.

4. In CB configuration, the value of α=0.98A. A voltage drop of 4.9V is obtained across the
resistor of 5KΩ when connected in collector circuit. Find the base current.
a) 0.01mA
b) 0.07mA
c) 0.02mA
d) 0.05mA
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Here, IC=4.9/5K=0.98mA
α = IC/IE .So,
IE=IC/α=0.98/0.98=1mA.
IB=IE-IC=1-0.98=0.02Ma.

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5. The emitter current IE in a transistor is 3mA. If the leakage current ICBO is 5µA and α=0.98,
calculate the collector and base current.
a) 3.64mA and 35µA
b) 2.945mA and 55µA
c) 3.64mA and 33µA
d) 5.89mA and 65µA
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: IC=αIE + ICBO
=0.98*3+0.005=2.945mA.
IE=IC+IB . So, IB=3-2.495=0.055mA=55µA.

6. Determine the value of emitter current and collector current of a transistor having α=0.98 and
collector to base leakage current ICBO=4µA. The base current is 50µA.
a) 1.5mA
b) 3.7mA
c) 2.7mA
d) 4.5mA
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Given, IB=50µA=0.05mA
ICBO=4µA=0.004Ma
IC=α/(1- α)IB+1/(1- α)ICBO=2.45+0.2=2.65Ma
IE=IC+IB=2.65+0.05=2.7mA.

7. The negative sign in the formula of amplification factor indicates_________


a) that IE flows into transistor while IC flows out it
b) that IC flows into transistor while IE flows out it
c) that IB flows into transistor while IC flows out it
d) that IC flows into transistor while IB flows out it
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: When no signal is applied, the ratio of collector current to emitter current is called
dc alpha, αdc of a transistor. αdc=-IC/IE. It is the measure of the quality of a transistor. Higher is
the value of α, better is the transistor in the sense that collector current approaches the emitter
current.

8. The relation between α and β is _________


a) β=α/(1-α)

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b) α= β/(1+β)
c) β=α/(1+α)
d) α= β/(1- β)
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: β is an ac base amplification factor. α is called as current amplification factor. The
relation of IC and IB change as IC= βIB+ (1+ β)ICBO.

9. A transistor has an IE of 0.9mA and amplification factor of 0.98. What will be the IC?
a) 0.745mA
b) 0.564mA
c) 0.236mA
d) 0.882mA
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Given, IE = 0.9mA, α=0.98
We know, α= IC/IE
So, IC=0.98*0.9=0.882mA.

10. The collector current is 2.945A and α=0.98. The leakage current is 2µA. What is the emitter
current and base current?
a) 3mA and 55µA
b) 2.945mA and 55µA
c) 3.64mA and 33µA
d) 5.89mA and 65µA
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: (IC – ICBO)/α=IE
= (2.945-0.002)/0.98=3mA.
IE=IC+IB . So, IB=3-2.495=0.055mA=55µA.

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Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “The Common Emitter Configuration”.

1. The base current amplification factor β is given by_________


a) IC/IB
b) IB/IC
c) IE/IB
d) IB/IE
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The current amplification factor (β) is given by IC//IB. When no signal is applied,
then the ratio of collector current to the base current is called current amplification factor of a
transistor.

2. In an NPN silicon transistor, α=0.995, IE=10mA and leakage current ICBO=0.5µA. Determine
ICEO.
a) 10µA
b) 100µA
c) 90µA
d) 500µA
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: IC=α IE +ICBO =0.995*10mA+0.5µA=9.9505mA.
IB=IE-IC=10-9.9505=0.0495mA. β=α/(1-α)=0.995/(1-0.995)=199
ICEO=9.9505-199*0.0495=0.1mA==100µA.

3. A germanium transistor with α=0.98 gives a reverse saturation current ICBO=10µA in a CB


configuration. When it is used in CE configuration with a base current of 0.22µA, calculate the
collector current.
a) 0.9867mA
b) 0.7654mA
c) 0.51078mA
d) 0.23456mA
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Given, ICBO=10µA, α=0.98 and IB =0.22µA. IC=α/ (1-α) IB+ 1/(1-α) ICBO
0.01078+0.5=0.51078mA.

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4. In CE configuration, if the voltage drop across 5kΩ resistor connected in the collector circuit
is 5V. Find the value of IB when β=50.
a) 0.01mA
b) 0.25mA
c) 0.03mA
d) 0.02mA
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: IC=V across RL/RL=5V/5KΩ=1mA.
IB=IC/β=1/50=0.02mA.

5. A transistor is connected in CE configuration. Collector supply voltage Vcc=10V, RL=800Ω,


voltage drop across RL=0.8V, α=0.96. What is base current?
a) 41.97µA
b) 56.78µA
c) 67.67µA
d) 78.54µA
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Here, IC=0.8/800=1mA
β= α/ (1-α)=0.96/1-0.96=24.
Now, IB=IC/ β=1/24=41.67µA.

6. The collector supply voltage for a CE configured transistor is 10V. The resistance R L=800Ω.
The voltage drop across RL is 0.8V. Find the value of collector emitter voltage.
a) 3.7V
b) 9.2V
c) 6.5V
d) 9.8V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Here, IC=0.8/800=1mA.
We know, VCE=VCC-ICRL
=10-0.8=9.2V.

7. The relation between α and β is_________


a) β = α/ (1-α)
b) α = β/(1+β)
c) β = α/ (1+α)

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d) α = β/(1- β)
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: β is an ac base amplification factor. α is called as current amplification factor. The
relation of IC and IB change as IC= βIB+ (1+ β) ICBO.

8. In ICEO, wt does the subscript ‘CEO’ mean?


a) collector to base emitter open
b) emitter to base collector open
c) collector to emitter base open
d) emitter to collector base open
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The subscript ‘CEO’ means that it is collector to emitter base open. It is called as
the leakage current. It occurs in a reverse bias in PNP transistor. The total current can be
calculated by IC=βIB+IC.

9. When the signal is applied, the ratio of change of collector current to the ratio of change of
base current is called_________
a) dc current gain
b) base current amplification factor
c) emitter current amplification factor
d) ac current gain
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The ac current gain is given by β=∆IC/∆IB. When the signal is applied, the ratio of
change of collector current to the ratio of change of base current is called ac current gain.

10. The range of β is _________


a) 20 to 500
b) 50 to 300
c) 30 to 400
d) 10 to 20
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Almost in all the transistors, the base current is less than 5% of the emitter current.
Due to this fact, it is generally greater than 20. Usually it ranges from 20 to 500. Hence this

249
configuration is frequently used when appreciable current gain as well as voltage gain is
required.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “The Common Collector Configuration”.

1. The current amplification factor ϒdc is given by_________


a) IE/IB
b) IB/IE
c) IC/IE
d) IE/IC
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: When no signal is applied, then the ratio of emitter current to base current is called
as ϒdc of the transistor. As the collector is common to both input and output circuits, hence the
name common collector configuration.

2. The relation between α and β is given by _________


a) 1/(1-α)=1- β
b) 1/(1+α)=1+ β
c) 1/(1-α)=1+ β
d) 1/(1+α)=1- β
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The current amplification factor (β) is given by IC//IB. When no signal is applied,
then the ratio of collector current to the base current is called current amplification factor of a
transistor. β is an ac base amplification factor. α is called as current amplification factor. The
relation of IC and IB change as IC= βIB+ (1+ β) ICBO.

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3. The CC configuration has an input resistance_________
a) 500kΩ
b) 750kΩ
c) 600kΩ
d) 400kΩ
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: It has a high input resistance and very low output resistance so the voltage gain is
always less one. It is used for driving a low impedance load from a high impedance source.

4. The application of a CC configured transistor is_________


a) voltage multiplier
b) level shifter
c) rectification
d) impedance matching
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The most important use of CC transistor is an impedance matching device. It is
seldom used for amplification purposes. The current gain is same as that of CE configured
transistor.

5. What is the output resistance of CC transistor?


a) 25 Ω
b) 50 Ω
c) 100 Ω
d) 150 Ω
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The CC transistor has a very low value of output resistance of 25 Ω. The voltage
gain is always less one. It is used for driving a low impedance load from a high impedance
source.

6. Increase in collector emitter voltage from 5V to 8V causes increase in collector current from
5mA to 5.3mA. Determine the dynamic output resistance.
a) 20kΩ
b) 10kΩ
c) 50kΩ
d) 60kΩ
View Answer

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Answer: b
Explanation: ro=∆VCE/∆IC
=3/0.3m=10kΩ.

7. A change in 300mV in base emitter voltage causes a change of 100µA in the base current.
Determine the dynamic input resistance.
a) 20kΩ
b) 10kΩ
c) 30kΩ
d) 60kΩ
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: ro=∆VBE/∆IB
=300m/100µ=30kΩ.

8. The point on the DC load line which is represented by ‘Q’ is called _________
a) cut off point
b) cut in point
c) breakdown point
d) operating point
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The point which represents the values of IC and VCE that exist in a transistor circuit
when no signal is applied is called as operating point. This is also called as working point or
quiescent point.

9. When is the transistor said to be saturated?


a) when VCE is very low
b) when VCE is very high
c) when VBE is very low
d) when VBE is very high
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: When VCE is very low, the transistor said to be saturated and it operates in saturated
region of characteristic. The change in base current IB does not produce a corresponding change
in the collector voltage IC.

10. The input resistance is given by _________


a) ∆VCE/∆IB

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b) ∆VBE/∆IB
c) ∆VBE/∆IC
d) ∆VBE/∆IE
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The ratio of change in base emitter voltage (∆VBE) to resulting change in base
current (∆IB) at constant collector emitter voltage (VCE) is defined as input resistance. This is
denoted by ri.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “The CE Characteristics”.

1. The input characteristics of a CE transistor is_________

a)

b)

253
c)

d)
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: A graph of IB against VBE is drawn. The curve so obtained is known as input
characteristics. The collector emitter voltage (VCE) is kept constant.

2. The input resistance is given by _________


a) ∆VCE/∆IB
b) ∆VBE/∆IB
c) ∆VBE/∆IC
d) ∆VBE/∆IE
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The ratio of change in base emitter voltage (∆VBE) to resulting change in base
current (∆IB) at constant collector emitter voltage (VCE) is defined as input resistance. This is
denoted by ri.

3. Which of the following depicts the output characteristics of a CE transistor?

a)
254
b)

c)

d)
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: A graph of IC against VCE is drawn. The curve so obtained is known as output
characteristics. The base current (IB) is kept constant.

4. The output resistance is given by _________


a) ∆VCE/∆IB
b) ∆VBE/∆IB
c) ∆VBE/∆IC

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d) ∆VCE/∆IC
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The ratio of change in collector emitter voltage (∆VCE) to resulting change in
collector current (∆IC) at constant base current (IB) is defined as output resistance. This is
denoted by ro.

5. Which of the following cases damage the transistor?


a) when VCE is increased too far
b) when VCE is decreased too far
c) when VBE is increased too far
d) when VBE is decreased too far
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: When VCE is increased too far, collector base junction completely breaks down and
due to this avalanche breakdown, collector current increases rapidly. This is not shown in the
characteristic. In this case, the transistor is damaged.

6. When the collector junction is reverse biased and emitter junction is forward biased, the
operating region of the transistor is called_________
a) inverted region
b) active region
c) cut off region
d) cut in region
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: In the active region, for small values of base current, the effect of collector voltage
over collector current is small while for large base currents this effect increases. The shape of
characteristic here is same as that of CB transistors.

7. The small amount of current which flows even when base current IB=0 is called_________
a) IBEO
b) ICBO
c) ICEO
d) IC
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: In the cut off region, a small amount of collector current flows even when base

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current IB is zero. This is called ICEO. Since the main current is also zero, the transistor is said to
be cut off.

8. A change in 700mV in base emitter voltage causes a change of 200µA in the base current.
Determine the dynamic input resistance.
a) 2kΩ
b) 10kΩ
c) 3kΩ
d) 3.5kΩ
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: ro=∆VBE/∆IB
=700m/200µ=3.5kΩ.

9. The change in collector emitter voltage from 6V to 9V causes increase in collector current
from 6mA to 6.3mA. Determine the dynamic output resistance.
a) 20kΩ
b) 10kΩ
c) 50kΩ
d) 60kΩ
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: ro=∆VCE/∆IC
=3/0.3m=10kΩ.

10. Which of the following points locates the quiescent point?


a) (IC, VCB)
b) (IE, VCE)
c) (IE, VCB)
d) (IC, VCE)
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The quiescent point is best located between the cut off and saturation point. IE=
VEE/RE, VCB=VCC-ICRL. It is denoted by ‘Q’.

257
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “The CB Characteristics”.

1. The input resistance in a CB transistor is given by _________


a) ∆VCE/∆IB
b) ∆VBE/∆IB
c) ∆VBE/∆IC
d) ∆VEB/∆IE
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The ratio of change in emitter base voltage (∆VEB) to resulting change in emitter
current (∆IE) at constant collector base voltage (VCB) is defined as input resistance. This is
denoted by ri.

2. The output resistance of CB transistor is given by _________


a) ∆VCB/∆IC
b) ∆VBE/∆IB
c) ∆VBE/∆IC
d) ∆VEB/∆IE
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The ratio of change in collector base voltage (∆VCB) to resulting change in collector
current (∆IC) at constant emitter current (IE)¬ is defined as output resistance. This is denoted by
ro.

3. Which one of the following depicts the output characteristics for a CB transistor?

a)

258
b)

c)

d)
View Answer

259
Answer: b
Explanation: A graph of IC against VCB is drawn. The curve so obtained is known as output
characteristics. The emitter current (IE) is kept constant.

4. The input characteristics of a CE transistor is_________

a)

b)

260
c)

d)
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: A graph of IE against VEB is drawn. The curve so obtained is known as input
characteristics. The collector base voltage (VBC) is kept constant.

5. A transistor is connected in CB configuration. The emitter voltage is changed by 200mV, the


emitter by 5mA. During this transition the collector base voltage is kept constant. What is the
input dynamic resistance?
a) 30Ω
b) 60Ω
c) 40Ω
d) 50Ω
View Answer

261
Answer: c
Explanation: The ratio of change in emitter base voltage (∆VEB) to resulting change in emitter
current (∆IE) at constant collector base voltage (VCB) is defined as input resistance. This is
denoted by ri.
We know, ∆VEB/∆IE=ri
=200/5=40Ω.

6. When the collector junction is reverse biased and emitter junction is forward biased, the
operating region of the transistor is called_________
a) inverted region
b) active region
c) cut off region
d) cut in region
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: In the active region, for small values of base current, the effect of collector voltage
over collector current is small while for large base currents this effect increases. The shape of
characteristic here is same as that of CB transistors.

7. Which of the following corresponds to the output circuit of a CB transistor?


a) VBE
b) IB
c) VCB
d) VCE
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Here, the quantity collector to base voltage corresponds to the output circuit of a
CB transistor. The complete electrical behaviour of a transistor can be described by stating the
relation between these quantities.

8. The input of a CB transistor is given between_________


a) collector and emitter terminals
b) base ad collector terminals
c) ground and emitter terminals
d) emitter and base terminals
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The name of the CB transistor says that it’s a common based one. The input is

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given between the emitter and base terminals and the output is taken between collector and base
terminals.

9. The current gain of the CB transistor is_________


a) less than or equal to unity
b) equal to unity
c) greater than unity
d) remains same
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The input current flowing into the emitter terminal must be higher than the base
current and collector current to operate the transistor. Therefore the output collector current is
less than the input emitter current.

10. The input characteristics of a CB transistor resembles_________


a) Forward biased diode
b) Illuminated photo diode
c) LED
d) Zener diode
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The input characteristics resemble the illuminated photo diode and the output
characteristics resemble the forward biased diode. This transistor has low input impedance and
high output impedance.

263
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “DC Load Lines”.

264
1. Which of the following depicts the DC load line?

a)

b)

c)

d)
View Answer

265
Answer: a
Explanation: In transistor circuit analysis, sometimes it is required to know the collector currents
for various collector emitter voltages. The one way is to draw its load line. We require the cut off
and saturation points.

2. For the circuit shown, find the quiescent point.

a) (10V, 4mA)
b) (4V, 10mA)
c) (10V, 3mA)
d) (3mA, 10V)
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: We know, IE=VEE/RE=30/10kΩ=3mA
IC=α IE =IE =3mA
VCB=VCC-ICRL=25-15=10V. So, quiescent point is (10V, 3mA).

3. Which of the following depicts the load line for the circuit shown below?

266
a)

b)

c)

d)
View Answer

267
Answer: d
Explanation: We know, IE=VEE/RE=15/5kΩ=3mA
IC=α IE =IE =3mA
VCB=VCC-ICRL=20-15=5V. So, quiescent point is (5V, 3mA).

4. For the circuit shown, find the quiescent point.

a) (6V, 1mA)
b) (4V, 10mA)
c) (10V, 3mA)
d) (3mA, 10V)
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: We know, VCE=12V
(IC)SAT =VCC/RL=12/6K=2mA. IB=10V/0.5M=20µA. IC= βIB=1mA. I
VCE=VCC-ICRL=12-1*6=6V. So, quiescent point is (6V, 1mA).

268
5. Which of the following depicts the load line for the given circuit?

a)

b)

269
c)

d)
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: We know, VCE=6V
(IC)SAT =VCC/RL=10/2K=5mA. IB=10V/0.5M=20µA. IC= βIB=1mA. I
VCE=VCC-ICRL=10-1*2=8V. So, quiescent point is (8V, 1mA).

6. The DC equivalent circuit for an NPN common base circuit is.

270
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: In the common base circuit, the emitter diode acts like a forward biased ideal diode,
while collector diode acts as a current source due to transistor action. Thus an ideal transistor
may be regarded as a rectifier diode in the emitter and a current source at collector.

271
7. The DC equivalent circuit for an NPN common emitter circuit is.

272
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: In the common emitter circuit, the ideal transistor may be regarded as a rectifier
diode in the base circuit and a current source in the collector circuit. In the current source, the
direction of arrow points in direction of conventional current.

8. What is the other representation of the given PNP transistor connected in common emitter
configuration?

273
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The emitter junction is forward biased with the help of battery VEE by which,
negative of the battery is connected to the emitter while positive is connected to base. RE is the
emitter resistance. The collector junction is reversed biased.

274
9. What is the DC characteristic used to prove that the transistor is indeed biased in saturation
mode?
a) IC = βIB
b) IC > βIB
c) IC >> βIB
d) IC < βIB
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: When in a transistor is driven into saturation, we use VCE(SAT) as another linear
parameter. In, addition when a transistor is biased in saturation mode, we have IC < βIB. This
characteristic used to prove that the transistor is indeed biased in saturation mode.

10. For the circuit shown, find the quiescent point.

a) (10V, 4mA)
b) (4V, 10mA)
c) (10V, 3mA)
d) (3mA, 10V)
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: We know, IE=VEE/RE=10/5kΩ=2mA
IC=α IE =IE =2mA
VCB=VCC-ICRL=20-10=10V. So, quiescent point is (10V, 2mA).

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Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Transistor as a Switch”.

1. In which region a transistor acts as an open switch?


a) cut off region
b) inverted region
c) active region
d) saturated region
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: In this mode, both the junctions are reverse biased. The transistor has practically
zero current because the emitter does not emit charge carriers to the base. There is negligibility
current due to minority carriers. In this mode the transistor acts as an open switch.

2. In which region a transistor acts as a closed switch?


a) cut off region
b) inverted region
c) active region
d) saturated region
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: In this mode, both the junctions are forward biased. The negative terminal of the
battery is connected to the emitter. The collector current becomes independent of base current. In
this mode the transistor acts as a closed switch.

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3. Which of the following circuits act as a switch?

a)

b)

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c)

d)
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: This is an inverter, in which the transistor in the circuit is switched between cut off
and saturation. The load, for example, can be a motor or a light emitting diode or any other
electrical device.

4. The current which is helpful for LED to turn on is_________


a) emitter current
b) base current
c) collector current
d) depends on bias
View Answer

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Answer: c
Explanation: Depending on the type of load, a collector current is induced that would turn on the
motor or LED. The transistor in the circuit is switched between cut off and saturation. The load,
for example, can be a motor or a light emitting diode or any other electrical device.

5. Which of the following statements is true?


a) Solid state switches are applications for an AC output
b) LED’s can be driven by transistor logics
c) Only NPN transistor can be used as a switch
d) Transistor operates as a switch only in active region
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Output devices like LED’s only require a few milliamps at logic level DC voltages
and can therefore be driven directly by the output of a logic gate. However, high power devices
such as motors or lamps require more power than that supplied by an ordinary logic gate so
transistor switches are used.

6. The base emitter voltage in a cut off region is_________


a) greater than 0.7V
b) equal to 0.7V
c) less than 0.7V
d) cannot be predicted
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: From the cut off characteristics, the base emitter voltage (VBE) in a cut off region is
less than 0.7V. The cut off region can be considered as ‘off mode’. Here, VBE > 0.7 and IC=0. For
a PNP transistor, the emitter potential must be negative with respect to the base.

7. In saturation region, the depletion layer_________


a) increases linearly with carrier concentration
b) decreases linearly with carrier concentration
c) increases by increasing the emitter current
d) decreases by decreasing the emitter voltage drop
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Here, the transistor will be biased so that maximum amount of base current is
applied, resulting in maximum collector current resulting in minimum emitter voltage drop
which results in depletion layer as small as possible and maximum current flows through the
transistor.

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8. The base emitter voltage in a saturation region is_________
a) greater than 0.7V
b) equal to 0.7V
c) less than 0.7V
d) cannot be predicted
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: From the saturation mode characteristics, the transistor acts as a single pole single
throw solid state switch. A zero collector current flows. With a positive signal applied to the base
of transistor it turns on like a closed switch.

9. The switching of power with a PNP transistor is called_________


a) sourcing current
b) sinking current
c) forward sourcing
d) reverse sinking
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Sometimes DC current gain of a bipolar transistor is too low to directly switch the
load current or voltage, so multiple switching transistors is used. The load is connected to ground
and the transistor switches the power to it.

10. The switching of power with a NPN transistor is called_________


a) sourcing current
b) sinking current
c) forward sourcing
d) reverse sinking
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Sometimes DC current gain of a bipolar transistor is too low to directly switch the
load current or voltage, so multiple switching transistors is used. The load is connected to supply
and the transistor switches the power to it.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Transistor Switching Times”.

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1. The collector current will not reach the steady state value instantaneously because
of_________
a) stray capacitances
b) resistances
c) input blocking capacitances
d) coupling capacitance
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: When a pulse is given, the collector current will not reach the steady state value
instantaneously because of stray capacitances. The charging and discharging of capacitance
makes the current to reach a steady state value after a given time constant.

2. For the BJT, β=∞, VBEon=0.7V VCEsat=0.7V. The switch is initially closed. At t=0, it is opened.
At which time the BJT leaves the active region?

a) 20ms
b) 50ms
c) 60ms
d) 70ms
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: At t < 0, the BJT is OFF in cut off region. IB=0 as β=∞, so IC=IE. When t > 0,
switch opens and BJT is ON. The voltage across capacitor increases. From the input loop, -5-
VBE-I(4.3K)+10=0 and gives I=1mA. IC1=1-0.5=0.5mA. VC1=0.7+4.3+10=-5V. IC1=C1dVC1/dt.
From this equation, we get t=50ms.

3. The technique used to quickly switch off a transistor is by_________


a) reverse biasing its emitter to collector junction
b) reverse biasing its base to collector junction

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c) reverse biasing its base to emitter junction
d) reverse biasing any junction
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The technique used to quickly switch off a transistor is by reverse biasing its base
to collector junction. It is demonstrated in a high voltage switching circuit. The advantage of this
circuit is that it is not necessary to have high voltage control signal.

4. The disadvantage of using the method of reverse biasing base emitter junction is_________
a) high voltage control signal
b) low voltage control signal
c) output swing
d) incomplete switching of output
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: This method is used to quickly switch off a transistor is by reverse biasing its base
to collector junction. It is demonstrated in a high voltage switching circuit. The disadvantage of
using the method of reverse biasing base emitter junction is that the output does not switch
completely to GND due to forward voltage drop of the diode.

5. Which of the following circuits helps in the applications of switching times?

a)

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b)

c)

283
d)
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: This is an inverter, in which the transistor in the circuit is switched between cut off
and saturation. The load, for example, can be a motor or a light emitting diode or any other
electrical device.

6. Which of the following helps in reducing the switching time of a transistor?


a) a resistor connected from base to ground
b) a resistor connected from emitter to ground
c) a capacitor connected from base to ground
d) a capacitor connected from emitter to ground
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Connecting a resistor connected from base of a transistor to ground/negative
voltage helps in reducing the switching the switching time of the transistor. When transistor
saturate, there is stored charge in the base that must be removed before it turns off.

7. The time taken for a transistor to turn from saturation to cut off is _________
a) inversely proportional to charge carriers
b) directly proportional to charge carriers
c) charging time of the capacitor

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d) discharging time of the capacitor
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: When sufficient charge carriers exist, the transistor goes into saturation. When the
switch is turned off, in order to go into cut off, the charge carriers in the base region need to
leave. The longer it takes to leave, the longer it takes for a transistor to turn from saturation to cut
off.

8. The switching of power with a PNP transistor is called _________


a) sourcing current
b) sinking current
c) forward sourcing
d) reverse sinking
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Sometimes DC current gain of a bipolar transistor is too low to directly switch the
load current or voltage, so multiple switching transistors is used. The load is connected to ground
and the transistor switches the power to it.

9. The base emitter voltage in a cut off region is _________


a) greater than 0.7V
b) equal to 0.7V
c) less than 0.7V
d) cannot be predicted
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: From the cut off characteristics, the base emitter voltage (VBE) in a cut off region is
less than 0.7V. The cut off region can be considered as ‘off mode’. Here, VBE < 0.7 and IC=0. For
a PNP transistor, the emitter potential must be negative with respect to the base.

10. Switching speed of P+ junction depends on _________


a) Mobility of minority carriers in P junction
b) Life time of minority carriers in P junction
c) Mobility of majority carriers in N junction
d) Life time of minority carriers in N junction
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Switching leads to move holes in P region to N region as minority carriers.

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Removal of this accumulation determines switching speed. P+ regards to a diode in which the p
type is doped excessively.

7. Questions & Answers on Transistor Biasing and Thermal Stabilization

The section contains questions and answers on operating point, bias stability, collector-to-base
and collector-emitter bias, self bias, bias compensation, thermistor, thermal runway and stability.

Collector-to-Base Bias Bias Stability


Self-Bias Emitter Feedback Bias
Bias Compensation Collector-Emitter Feedback Bias
Thermal Runaway Stabilization against Variations in VBE and Beta for
Thermal Stability Self Bias Circuit
The Operating Point Thermistor and Sensistor Compensation

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Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Collector-to-Base Bias”.

1. The collector current (IC) that is obtained in a collector to base biased transistor is_________
a) (VCC-VBE)/RB
b) (VCC+VBE)/RB
c) (VCE-VBE)/RB
d) (VCE+VBE)/RB
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The collector current is analysed by the DC analysis of a transistor. It involves the

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DC equivalent circuit of a transistor. The base current is first found and the collector current is
obtained from the relation, IC=IBβ.

2. The collector to emitter voltage (VCE) is obtained by_________


a) VCC – RC(IC-IB)
b) VCC – RC(IC+IB)
c) VCC + RC(IC+IB)
d) VCC + RC(IC-IB)
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The collector to emitter voltage is obtained in order to find the operating point of a
transistor. It is taken when there is no signal applied to the transistor. The point thus obtained lies
in the cut off region when the transistor is used as a switch.

3. What is the DC characteristic used to prove that the transistor is indeed biased in saturation
mode?
a) IC = βIB
b) IC > βIB
c) IC >> βIB
d) IC < βIB
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: When in a transistor is driven into saturation, we use VCE(SAT) as another linear
parameter. In, addition when a transistor is biased in saturation mode, we have IC < βIB. This
characteristic used to prove that the transistor is indeed biased in saturation mode.

4. The thermal runway is avoided in a collector to base bias because_________


a) of its independence of β
b) of the positive feedback produced by the base resistor
c) of the negative feedback produced by the base resistor
d) of its dependence of β
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The self destruction of a transistor due to increase temperature is called thermal run
away. It is avoided by the negative feedback produced by the base resistor in a collector to base
bias. The IC which is responsible for the damage is reduced by decreased output signal.

5. When the temperature is increased, what happens to the collector current after a feedback is
given?

288
a) it remains same
b) it increases
c) it cannot be predicted
d) it decreases
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Before the feedback is applied, when the temperature is increased, the reverse
saturation increases. The collector current also increases. When the feedback is applied, the base
current increases with decreasing collector current and the thermal runway too.

6. The demerit of a collector to base bias is_________


a) its need of high resistance values
b) its dependence on β
c) its independence on β
d) the positive feedback produced by the base resistor
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: When the stability factor S=1, the collector resistor value should be very large
when compared to the base resistor. So, when RC is large we need to provide large power supply
which increases the cost. At the same time, as the base resistor is small we need to provide small
power supply.

7. The negative feedback does good for DC signal by_________


a) decreasing the gain
b) increasing the gain
c) stabilising the operating point
d) increasing the stability factor
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The resistor RB can provide negative feedback for both AC and DC signals. The
negative feedback for DC signal is done good as it can provide stable operating point. On the
other side, the negative feedback is badly done for AC signal by decreasing the voltage gain.

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8. In the circuit, transistor has β =60, VBE=0.7V. Find the collector to emitter voltage drop VCE.

a) 5V
b) 3V
c) 8V
d) 6V
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: We know, IC=(VCC-VBE)/RB
By putting the values, we have IC=5.9mA. IE=IC/α. So, IE=5.99mA.
VCE= VCC-RC(IC+IB). We have VCE=6V.

9. In the circuit shown below, β =100 and VBE=0.7V. The Zener diode has a breakdown voltage
of 6V. Find the operating point.

a) (6.7V, 5.3mA)

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b) (5.7V, 5.3mA)
c) (6.7V, 5mA)
d) (6V, 5mA)
View Answer

Answer; a
Explanation: We know, by KVL -12+(IC+IB)1K+6+VBE=0
We have IE=5.3. IC= αIE=5.24mA. From another loop, -12+IEIK+VBE=0
We have, VCE=12-5.3m*1000=6.7V. Hence the Q point is (6.7V, 5.3mA).

10. When the β value is large for a given transistor, the IC and VCE values are given
by_________
a) (VCC-VBE)/RB, VCC-RCIC
b) (VCC+VBE)/RB, VCC-RC(IC+IB)
c) (VCC+VBE)/RB, VCC+RC(IC+IB)
d) (VCC+VBE)/RB, VCC+RC(IC-IB)
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The base current IB is zero when β value is large. So, the VCE changes to VCC-RCIC.
The collector current IC is changed to (VCC-VBE)/RB from β(VCC-VBE)/(1+ β)RE+ RB.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Self-Bias”.

1. The collector current (IC) that is obtained in a self biased transistor is_________
a) (VTH – VBE)/RE
b) (VTH + VBE)/RE
c) (VTH – VBE)/RE
d) (VTH + VBE)/RE
View Answer

291
Answer: a
Explanation: The collector current is analysed by the DC analysis of a transistor. It involves the
DC equivalent circuit of a transistor. The base current is first found and the collector current is
obtained from the relation, IC=IBβ.

2. The collector to emitter voltage (VCE) is obtained by_________


a) VCC – RCIC+RBIB
b) VCC – RCIC-REIE
c) VCC + RCIC
d) VCC + RCIB
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The collector to emitter voltage is obtained in order to find the operating point of a
transistor. It is taken when there is no signal applied to the transistor. The point thus obtained lies
in the cut off region when the transistor is used as a switch.

3. The thermal runway is avoided in a self bias because_________


a) of its independence of β
b) of the positive feedback produced by the emitter resistor
c) of the negative feedback produced by the emitter resistor
d) of its dependence of β
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The self destruction of a transistor due to increase temperature is called thermal run
away. It is avoided by the negative feedback produced by the emitter resistor in a self bias. The
IC which is responsible for the damage is reduced by decreased output signal.

4. When the temperature is increased, what happens to the collector current after a feedback is
given?
a) it remains same
b) it increases
c) it cannot be predicted
d) it decreases
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Before the feedback is applied, when the temperature is increased, the reverse
saturation increases. The collector current also increases. When the feedback is applied, the drop
across the emitter resistor increases with decreasing collector current and the thermal runway
too.

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5. What is the Thevenin’s voltage (VTH) in a self bias shown below?

a) VCCR2/R1+R2
b) VCCR1/R1+R2
c) VCCR2/R1-R2
d) VCCR2/R1-R2
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The base current cannot be obtained directly from the KVL or KCL applications.
The VCC and VBE cannot come under a single equation. So, the circuit is changed with a
Thevenin’s voltage (VTH) and Thevenin’s resistance.

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6. What is the Thevenin’s resistance (RTH) in a self bias shown below?

a) R1R2/R1+R2
b) R2/R1+R2
c) R1R2/R1-R2
d) R1/R1-R2
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The base current cannot be obtained directly from the KVL or KCL applications. A
potential divider network is formed by R1 and R2.The VCC and VBE cannot come under a single
equation. So, the circuit is changed with a Thevenin’s resistance.

7. The stability factor for a self biased transistor is_________


a) 1 – RTH/RE
b) 1 + RTH/RE
c) 1 + RE/RTH
d) 1 – RE/RTH
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The stability of the circuit is inversely proportional to the stability factor. The
emitter resistor is very large when compared to the Thevenin’s resistance. When β is not that
large, then S=(1+ β)( RTH+ RE)/ (1+ β)RE+ RTH.

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8. In the circuit, the transistor has a large β value (VBE=0.7V). Find the current through RC.

a) 0.5mA
b) 2mA
c) 1mA
d) 1.6mA
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: We know, IC=VTH-VBE/RE
=9*3/9=3V. IC=3-0.7/2.3=1mA.

9. A silicon NPN transistor is used and it has a large value of β. Find the required value of R2
when IC=1mA.

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a) 10kΩ
b) 20kΩ
c) 30kΩ
d) 40kΩ
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: For silicon, VBE=0.8V, VCE=0.2V. IC=VTH-VBE/RE. By pitting the values, we have
VTH=1.3V. R2 can be found from, VCCR2/R1+R2. We get R2=40KΩ.

10. The value of αac for all practical purposes, for commercial transistors range from_________
a) 0.5 to 0.6
b) 0.7 to 0.77
c) 0.8 to 0.88
d) 0.9 to 0.99
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: For all practical purposes, αac=αdc=α and practical values in commercial
transistors range from 0.9-0.99. It is the measure of the quality of a transistor. Higher is the value
of α, better is the transistor in the sense that collector current approaches the emitter current.

296
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Bias Compensation”.

1. The compensation techniques are used to_________


a) increase stability
b) increase the voltage gain
c) improve negative feedback
d) decrease voltage gain
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Usually, the negative feedback is used to produce a stable operating point. But it
reduces the voltage gain of the circuit. This sometimes is intolerable and should be avoided in
some applications. So, the biasing techniques are used.

2. Compensation techniques refer to the use of_________


a) diodes
b) capacitors
c) resistors
d) transformers
View Answer

297
Answer: a
Explanation: Compensation techniques refer to the use of temperature sensitive devices such as
thermistors, diodes, transistors, sensistors etc to compensate variation in currents. Sometimes for
excellent bias and thermal stabilization, both stabilization and compensation techniques are used.

3. In a silicon transistor, which of the following change significantly to the change in IC?
a) VCE
b) IB
c) VBE
b) IE
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: For germanium transistor, changes in ICO with temperature contribute more serious
problem than for silicon transistor. On the other hand, in a silicon transistor, the changes of VBE
with temperature possesses significantly to the changes in IC.

4. What is the compensation element used for variation in VBE and ICO?
a) diodes
b) capacitors
c) resistors
d) transformers
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: A diode is used as the compensation element used variation in VBE and ICO. The
diode used is of the same material and type as that of transistor. Hence, the voltage across the
diode has same temperature coefficient as VBE of the transistor.

5. The expression for IC in the compensation for instability due to ICO variation_________
a) βI+βIO+βICO
b) βI+βIO
c) βIO+βICO
d) βI+βICO
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: In this method, diode is used for the compensation in variation of ICO. The diode
used is of the same material and type as that of transistor. Hence, the reverse saturation current IO
of the diode will increase with temperature at the same rate as the transistor collector saturation
current ICO.

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6. Which of the following has a negative temperature coefficient of resistance?
a) sensistor
b) diode
c) thermistor
d) capacitor
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The thermistor has a negative temperature coefficient of resistance. It means, its
resistance decreases exponentially with increasing T. The thermistor RT is used to minimize the
increase in collector current.

7. Which of the following has a negative temperature coefficient of resistance?


a) capacitor
b) diode
c) thermistor
d) sensistor
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The sensistor has a positive temperature coefficient of resistance. It is a temperature
sensitive resistor. It is a heavily doped semiconductor. When voltage is decreased, the net
forward emitter voltage decreases. As a result the collector current decreases.

8. Increase in collector emitter voltage from 5V to 8V causes increase in collector current from
5mA to 5.3mA. Determine the dynamic output resistance.
a) 20kΩ
b) 10kΩ
c) 50kΩ
d) 60kΩ
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: ro=∆VCE/∆IC
=3/0.3m=10kΩ.

9. The output resistance of CB transistor is given by _________


a) ∆VCB/∆IC
b) ∆VBE/∆IB
c) ∆VBE/∆IC
d) ∆VEB/∆IE
View Answer

299
Answer: a
Explanation: The ratio of change in collector base voltage (∆VCB) to resulting change in collector
current (∆IC) at constant emitter current (IE) is defined as output resistance. This is denoted by ro.

10. The negative sign in the formula of amplification factor indicates_________


a) that IE flows into transistor while IC flows out it
b) that IC flows into transistor while IE flows out it
c) that IB flows into transistor while IC flows out it
d) that IC flows into transistor while IB flows out it
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: When no signal is applied, the ratio of collector current to emitter current is called
dc alpha, αdc of a transistor. αdc=-IC/IE. It is the measure of the quality of a transistor. Higher is
the value of α, better is the transistor in the sense that collector current approaches the emitter
current.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Thermal Runaway”.

1. Thermal runaway is_________


a) an uncontrolled positive feedback
b) a controlled positive feedback
c) an uncontrolled negative feedback

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d) a controlled negative feedback
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Thermal runaway is a self destruction process in which an increase in temperature
creates such a condition which in turn increases the temperature again. This uncontrolled rise in
temperature causes the component to get damaged.

2. The thermal runway is avoided in a self bias because_________


a) of its independence on β
b) of the positive feedback produced by the emitter resistor
c) of the negative feedback produced by the emitter resistor
d) of its dependence on β
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The self destruction of a transistor due to increase temperature is called thermal run
away. It is avoided by the negative feedback produced by the emitter resistor in a self bias. The
IC which is responsible for the damage is reduced by decreased output signal.

3. When the temperature is increased, what happens to the collector current after a feedback is
given?
a) it remains same
b) it increases
c) it cannot be predicted
d) it decreases
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Before the feedback is applied, when the temperature is increased, the reverse
saturation increases. The collector current also increases. When the feedback is applied, the drop
across the emitter resistor increases with decreasing collector current and the thermal runway
too.

4. The thermal runway is avoided in a collector to base bias because_________


a) of its independence on β
b) of the positive feedback produced by the base resistor
c) of the negative feedback produced by the base resistor
d) of its dependence on β
View Answer

301
Answer: c
Explanation: The self destruction of a transistor due to increase temperature is called thermal run
away. It is avoided by the negative feedback produced by the base resistor in a collector to base
bias. The IC which is responsible for the damage is reduced by decreased output signal.

5. When the temperature is increased, what happens to the collector current after a feedback is
given?
a) it remains same
b) it increases
c) it cannot be predicted
d) it decreases
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Before the feedback is applied, when the temperature is increased, the reverse
saturation increases. The collector current also increases. When the feedback is applied, the base
current increases with decreasing collector current and the thermal runway too.

6. Discrete transistors T1 and T2 having maximum collector current rating of 0.75A are
connected in parallel as shown in the figure. This combination is treated as a single transistor to
carry a single current of 1A, when biased with a self bias circuit. When the circuit is switched
ON, T1 had draws 0.55A and T2 draws 0.45A. If the supply is kept ON continuously, it is very
likely that_________

a) both T1 and T2 get damaged


b) both T1 and T2 will be safe
c) only T1 gets damaged
d) only T2 gets damaged
View Answer

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Answer: c
Explanation: The T1 transistor is having more power dissipation as it is drawing 0.55A. When
power dissipation increases, the temperature increases and this leads to the ultimate further
increase in the current drawn by T1. The current drawn by T2 will be reduced as the sum of
currents drawn by T1 and T2 should be constant.

7. When the collector current is increased in a transistor_________


a) the reverse current is increased
b) the temperature is increased
c) collisions of electrons decrease
d) the emitter does not emit electrons
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: As the collector current is increased, the emitter releases more number of electrons.
This causes more collisions of electrons at collector. This happens in a cycle and produces such a
condition in which temperature is further more increased.

8. Which of the following are true?


a) TJ – TA = θPd
b) TJ – TA = θ/Pd
c) TJ – TA = θ+Pd
d) TJ – TA = θ-Pd
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The TJ is called as junction temperature which varies and TA is called as the
ambient temperature which is fixed. The difference between these temperatures is directly
proportional to the power dissipation. Here, θ is called as thermal resistance which is
proportionality constant.

9. When the power dissipation increases in a transistor, the thermal resistance_________


a) increases
b) cannot be predicted
c) decreases
d) remains same
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The power dissipation is directly proportional to thermal resistance. We have, TJ –
TA = θPd in which we can observe θ ∝ 1/Pd. So, a device with low power dissipation has high
thermal resistance.

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10. Which of the following biasing techniques are prone to thermal runaway?
a) self bias
b) collector to base bias
c) fixed bias
d) the biasing technique is identified by temperature effect
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The collector current of a fixed bias transistor is IC= β(VCC-VBE)/RB. When the
temperature is increased, the reverse saturation increases. The collector current also increases.
This in turn increases the current again which leads to damage of transistor.

304
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Thermal Stability”.

1. For a given transistor, the thermal resistance is 8°C/W and for the ambient temperature TA is
27°C. If the transistor dissipates 3W of power, calculate the junction temperature (TJ).
a) 51°C
b) 27°C
c) 67°C
d) 77°C
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: We know, TJ-TA=HPD
TJ=TA+HPD=27+8*3=51°C.

2. Which of the following are true?


a) TJ-TA=θpd
b) TJ-TA=θ/pd
c) TJ-TA=θ+pd
d) TJ-TA=θ-pd
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The TJ¬ is called as junction temperature which varies and TA is called as the
ambient temperature which is fixed. The difference between these temperatures is directly
proportional to the power dissipation. Here, θ is called as thermal resistance which is
proportionality constant.

3. A silicon power transistor is operated with a heat sink HS-A=1.5°C/W. The transistor rated at
150W (25°C) has HJ-C=0.5°C/W and the mounting insulation has HC-S=0.6°C/W. What
maximum power can be dissipated if the ambient temperature is 40°C and (TJ)MAX=200°C?
a) 70.6W
b) 61.5W
c) 37.8W

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d) 56.9W
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: PD=(TJ-TA)/ HJ-C +HC-S +HS-A
=200-40/0.5+0.6+1.5=61.5W.

4. The total thermal resistance of a power transistor and heat sink is 20°C/W. The ambient
temperature is 25°C and (TJ)MAX=200°C. If VCE=4V, find the maximum collector current that
the transistor can carry without destruction.
a) 3.67A
b) 7.56A
c) 2.19A
d) 4.16A
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: PD =(TJ-TA)/ H
=200-25/20=8.75W.
Now, VCEIC = 8.75/4=2.19A.

5. The total thermal resistance of a power transistor and heat sink is 20°C/W. The ambient
temperature is 25°C and (TJ)MAX=200°C. If VCE=4V, find the maximum collector current that
the transistor can carry without destruction. What will be the allowed value of collector current if
ambient temperature rises to 75°C?
a) 3.67A
b) 7.56A
c) 2.19A
d) 1.56A
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: PD =(TJ-TA)/ H
=200-75/20=6.25W.
Now, IC = 6.25/4=1.56A.

6. Which of the following is true?


a) HC-A = HJ-C – HJ-A
b) HC-A = HJ-C + HJ-A
c) HJ-A = HJ-C – HC-A
d) HJ-A = HJ-C + HC-A
View Answer

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Answer: d
Explanation: HJ-C is thermal resistance between junction and case and HC-A is thermal resistance
between case and ambient. The circuit designer has no control over HJ-C. So, a proper approach
to dissipate heat from case to ambient is through heat sink.

7. The condition to be satisfied to prevent thermal runaway?


a) ∂PC/∂TJ > 1/Q
b) ∂PC/∂TJ < 1/Q
c) ∂PC/∂TJ > 1/Q
d) ∂PC/∂TJ < 1/Q
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: PC is the power dissipated at the collector junction. TJ is junction temperature which
varies. The difference between these temperatures is directly proportional to the power
dissipation. Here, Q is called as thermal resistance which is proportionality constant.

8. Thermal stability can be obtained by_________


a) shifting operating point
b) increasing power supply
c) heat sink
d) decreasing current at collector
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: As power transistors handle large currents, they always heat up during operation.
Generally, power transistors are mounted in large metal case to provide a large area from which
the heat generated by the device radiates.

9. Thermal stability is dependent on thermal runaway which is_________


a) an uncontrolled positive feedback
b) a controlled positive feedback
c) an uncontrolled negative feedback
d) a controlled negative feedback
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Thermal runaway is a self destruction process in which an increase in temperature
creates such a condition which in turn increases the temperature again. This uncontrolled rise in
temperature causes the component to get damaged.

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10. Which of the following biasing techniques are affected by thermal runaway?
a) self bias
b) collector to base bias
c) fixed bias
d) the biasing technique is identified by temperature effect
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The collector current of a fixed bias transistor is IC= β(VCC-VBE)/RB. When the
temperature is increased, the reverse saturation increases. The collector current also increases.
This in turn increases the current again which leads to damage of transistor.

8. Questions on Signals and Amplifiers

The section contains questions and answers on basics of signals, amplifiers, sinusoidal steady
state analysis, amplifier circuit models and frequency response.

Signals
Frequency Response of Amplifier
Amplifiers
Sinusoidal Steady State Analysis
Circuit Models for Amplifier

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Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Signals”.

1. A cosine wave voltage signal has a 10V RMS value and 60Hz frequency. Also at time, t=0,
the value of the voltage signal is equal to its RMS value. Which of the following is the correct
mathematical representation of the voltage signal?
a) 10 cos(60t)
b) 10 cos (120πt)
c) 14.14 cos(60t + π/4)
d) 14.14 cos(120πt + π/4)
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Only equation 14.14 cos(120πt + π/4) satisfies all the given parameters.

2. Which of the following is a characteristic of digital signal?


a) It takes quantized value

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b) Its waveform is a continuous function
c) The maximum number of signals that can be produced by N bits is 2N-1
d) There is no loss of value after converting an analog signal to digital signal
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Digital signal is non continuous and has discrete sets of possible value which it can
take.

3. Consider an N-bits ADC (Analog to Digital Converter) whose analog input varies from 0 to
Vmax, then which of the following is not true?
a) The least significant bit correspond to a change of Vmax/2N -1 in the analog signal
b) The resolution of the ADC is Vmax/2N -1
c) The maximum error in the conversion (or quantization error) is Vmax/2(2N -1)
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: None of the statements are true.

4. In compact disc (CD) audio technology, the signal is sampled at 44kHz. Each sample is
represented by 16bits. What is the speed of the system in bits/second?
a) 1.34 bits/second
b) 2,750 bits/second
c) 704,000 bits/second
d) 1,441,792,000 bits/second
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: 44000 X 16 = 704000 bits/s

5. An electrical signal can be represented in either Thevenin form or Norton From. However,
Thevenin representation is preferred when
a) The load resistance is very large as compared to the source resistance
b) The load resistance is very low compared to the source resistance
c) There is no preferred case.
d) Both of the cases mentioned are the preferred case
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: a is preferred in Thevenin’s case and b in Norton’s case

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6. An electrical signal can be represented in either Thevenin form or Norton From. However,
Norton representation is preferred when
a) The load resistance is very large as compared to the source resistance
b) The load resistance is very low as compared to the source resistance
c) There is no preferred case
d) Both of the cases mentioned are the preferred case
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: a is preferred in Thevenin’s case and b in Norton’s case

Consider the DAC (digital to Analog Converter) shown below. Where b1, b2….bn can be either 0
or 1. (Q.7 to Q.9)

7. What will be the value of the output current io, if the digital signal is in the form of
b1b2b3…bn
a) Vref/2R (b1/2+ b2/4 + b3/8….+bn/(2N))
b) 2Vref/R (b1/2+ b2/4 + b3/8….+bn/(2N))
c) Vref/R (b1/2+ b2/4 + b3/8….+bn/(2N))
d) none of the above
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: It is the total current that will flow individual resistances.

8. Which is the Most Significant Bit and Least Significant Bit in this case?
a) MSB: bN, LSB: bN
b) MSB: bN, LSB: b1
c) MSB: b1, LSB: bN
d) MSB: b1, LSB: b1
View Answer

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Answer: b
Explanation: LSB will have maximum resistance (hence least contribution to the total current)
and MSB will have least resistance (Hence maximum contribution to the total current).

9. For vref = 10V, n = 6, and R= 5000 ohm, which of the following is true?
a) The maximum value of the output current is 1.9375 mA
b) The change in the output current if the LSB is changed from 0 to 1 is 0.03125 mA
c) The change in the output current is the MSB is change from 0 to 1 is 0.5 mA
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: According to the figure, the LSB is given by 10 / 50006 mA.

10. What is the binary representation of 57?


a) 0011 1101
b) 0101 1001
c) 0111 1001
d) 0011 1001
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The binary equivalent of 57 is 00111001.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Amplifiers”.

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1. An amplifier operating from ±3V provide a 2.2V peak sine wave across a 100 ohm load when
provided with a 0.2V peak sine wave as an input from which 1.0mA current is drawn. The
average current in each supply is measured to be 20mA. What is the amplifier efficiency?
a) 20.2%
b) 25.2%
c) 30.2%
d) 35.2%
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation:

2. In order to prevent distortion in the output signal after amplification, the input signal must be
a) Higher than the positive saturation level of the amplifier
b) Lower than the negative saturation level of the amplifier
c) Must lie with the negative and the positive saturation level of the amplifier
d) Both higher than the positive saturation level of the amplifier and lower than the negative
saturation level of the amplifier
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Higher than the positive saturation and lower than the negative saturation level of
the amplifier are the desired characteristics in order to prevent distortion.

3. The voltage gain of the amplifier is 8 and the current gain is 7. The power gain of the amplifier
is
a) 56 db
b) 17.481 db
c) 34.963 db
d) 1 db
View Answer

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Answer: b
Explanation: The power gain is given by 10 log (7 X 8) db.

4. Statement 1: Voltage gain of -5 means that the output voltage has been attenuated.
Statement 2: Voltage gain of -5db means that the output voltage has been attenuated.
a) Statement 1 and Statement 2 are true
b) Statement 1 and Statement 2 are false
c) Only Statement 1 is true
d) Only Statement 2 is true
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: A negative voltage gain means that a phase difference of 1800 has been introduced
in the output waveform when compared to the input waveform. A voltage gain of -5db means
that the signal has been attenuated.

5. Which of the following isn’t true?


a) Both transformer and amplifier can provide voltage gain
b) Both transformer and amplifier can provide current gain
c) Both transformer and amplifier can provide power gain
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: For an ideal transformer the power input is always equal to the power output. In
real conditions there is slight loss of power when transferring the power from an input source to
an output source. Amplifiers only provide power gain.

6. Symmetrically saturated amplifiers operating in clipping mode can be used to convert a sine
wave to a
a) Square wave
b) Pseudo Square wave
c) Sawtooth wave
d) Triangular wave
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Clipping circuits with low peak values of the output signals are used to generate
pseudo square waves if the input signal is very large as compared to the output signal.

7. What is meant by stability of the an amplified signal?


a) The amplified signal must have a finite amplitude

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b) The amplified signal should not have self oscillation
c) The input and the output signal must be proportional
d) The ratio of the input and the output signal must be finite
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The ability of the amplifier to prevent self oscillation is a measure of its stability.

8. If Av, Ai and Ap represents the voltage gain, current gain and power gain ratio of an amplifier
which of the below is not the correct expression for the corresponding values in decibel?
a) Current gain: 20 log Ai db
b) Voltage gain: 20 log Av db
c) Power gain: 20 log Ap db
d) Power gain: 10 log Ap
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Power gain is given by 10 log Ap db.

9. An amplifier has a voltage gain of 100 V/V and a current gain of 1000A/A. the value of the
power gain decibel is
a) 30 db
b) 40 db
c) 50 db
d) 60 db
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Power gain in db is given by 10 log (100 X 1000) db.

10. The units of voltage gain is


a) It has no units, it is a ratio
b) Decibels (db)
c) All of the mentioned
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Voltage gain (Vo) = output voltage/input voltage (Vi). It is also expresses as 20 log
(Vo/Vi) db.

315
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Circuit Models for Amplifier”.

1. Buffer amplifier needs to have


a) Low input resistance and low output resistance
b) High Input resistance and high output resistance
c) Low input resistance and high output resistance
d) High input resistance and low output resistance
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Buffer amplifiers are used to connect high input resistance source to a low output
resistance load.

2. The ideal values for the input resistance (Ri) and the output resistance (Ro) of a
transconductance amplifier are
a) Ri = 0 and Ro = 0
b) Ri = ∞ and R0 = ∞
c) Ri = 0 and R0 = ∞
d) Ri = ∞ and Ri = 0
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: It is a desired characteristics of transconductance amplifier ideally.

3. An amplifier has a voltage gain of 40db. The value of AVO is


a) 10
b) 100
c) 20

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d) 200
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The expression is given by 10 log AVO = 40. Solving for Avo gives 100 as the
answer.

4. The output voltage of a voltage amplifier has been found to decrease by 20% when a load
resistance of 1 kΩ is connected. What is the value of the amplifier output resistance?
a) 50Ω
b) 200Ω
c) 250Ω
d) 350Ω
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: 250 / (1000 + 250) X 100% = 20%. Hence the output resistance is 250 ohm.

5. Which of the following is a transresistance amplifier?

a)

b)

c)

317
d)
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Figure d is the correct representation rest are voltage, current, transconductance
amplifiers.

6. The signal to be amplified is current signal and the output desired is a voltage signal. Which of
the following amplifier can perform this task?
a) Voltage amplifier
b) Current amplifier
c) Transconductance amplifier
d) Transresistance amplifier
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: It is a characteristic of transconductance amplifier.

7. You are given two amplifiers, A and B, to connect in cascade between a 10-mV, 100-kΩ
source (S) and a 100-Ω load (L). The amplifiers have voltage gain, input resistance, and output
resistance as follows: for A, 100 V/V, 10 kΩ, 10 kΩ, respectively; for B, 1 V/V, 100 kΩ, 100 Ω,
respectively. Your problem is to decide how the amplifiers should be connected so that the
voltage gain is maximum.
a) SABL
b) SBAL
c) Both have the same voltage gain
d) None as neither combination is able to amplify the input signal
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: None

8. A transconductance amplifier with Ri = 2 kΩ, Gm = 40 mA/V, and Ro = 20 kΩ is fed with a


voltage source having a source resistance of 2 kΩ and is loaded with a 1-kΩ resistance. Find the
voltage gain realized.
a) 18.05 V/V
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b) 19.05 V/V
c) 20.05 V/V
d) 21.05V/V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation:

9. The ratio of the short circuit current gain of a current amplifier (Ai) to the open circuit voltage
gain of a voltage amplifier (AV), given that both amplifiers have the same value of the input
resistance (Ri) and output resistance (R0), is
a) Ri
b) Ro
c) Ri / R0
d) Ro / Ri
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: It is a standard mathematical relation.

10. The ratio of the open circuit voltage of a voltage amplifier (AV) to the short circuit
transconductance of a (Gm) of a transconductance amplifier, given that both have the same value
of the internal resistance (Ri) and the output resistance (R0), is
a) Ri
b) R0
c) 1/Ri

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d) 1/R0
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: It is a standard mathematical relation.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Frequency Response of Amplifier”.

1. Consider a voltage amplifier having a frequency response of the low-pass STC type with a dc
gain of 60 dB and a 3-dB frequency of 1000 Hz. Then the gain db at
a) f = 10 Hz is 55 db
b) f = 10 kHz is 45 db
c) f = 100 kHz is 25 db

320
d) f = 1Mhz is 0 db
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Use standard formulas for frequency response and voltage gain.

2. STC networks can be classified into two categories: low-pass (LP) and high-pass (HP). Then
which of the following is true?
a) HP network passes dc and low frequencies and attenuate high frequency and opposite for LP
network
b) LP network passes dc and low frequencies and attenuate high frequency and opposite for HP
network
c) HP network passes dc and high frequencies and attenuate low frequency and opposite for LP
network
d) LP network passes low frequencies only and attenuate high frequency and opposite for HP
network
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: By definition a LP network allows dc current (or low frequency current) and an LP
network does the opposite, that is, allows high frequency ac current.

3. Single-time-constant (STC) networks are those networks that are composed of, or can be
reduced to
a) One reactive component (L or C) and a resistance (R)
b) Only capacitive component (C) and resistance (R)
c) Only inductive component (L) and resistance (R)
d) Reactive components (L, C or both L and C) and resistance (R)
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: STC has only one reactive component and one resistive component.

4. The signal whose waveform is not effected by a linear circuit is


a) Triangular Waveform signal
b) Rectangular waveform signal
c) Sine/Cosine wave signal
d) Sawtooth waveform signal
View Answer

321
Answer: c
Explanation: Only sine/cosine wave are not affected by a linear circuit while all other waveforms
are affected by a linear circuit.

5. Which of the following is not a classification of amplifiers on the basis of their frequency
response?
a) Capacitively coupled amplifier
b) Direct coupled amplifier
c) Bandpass amplifier
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: None of the options provided are correct.

6. General representation of the frequency response curve is called


a) Bode Plot
b) Miller Plot
c) Thevenin Plot
d) Bandwidth Plot
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: General representation of frequency response curves are called Bode plot. Bode
plots are also called semi logarithmic plots since they have logarithmic values values on one of
the axes.

7. Under what condition can the circuit shown be called a compensated attenuator.

a) C1R1 = C2R2
b) C1R2 = C2R1
c) C1C2 = R1R2

322
d) R1 = 0
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Standard condition of a compensated attenuator. Here is the derivation for the
same.

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8. When a circuit is called compensated attenuator?
a) Transfer function is directly proportional to the frequency
b) Transfer function is inversely proportional to the frequency
c) Transfer function is independent of the frequency
d) Natural log of the transfer function is proportional to the frequency
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Transfer function does not has frequency in its mathematical formula.

9. Which of the following is true?


a) Coupling capacitors causes the gain to fall off at high frequencies
b) Internal capacitor of a device causes the gain to fall off at low frequencies
c) All of the mentioned
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Both the statements are false.

10. Which of the following is true?


a) Monolithic IC amplifiers are directly coupled or dc amplifiers
b) Televisions and radios use tuned amplifiers
c) Audio amplifiers have coupling capacitor amplifier
d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: These all are practical applications of different types of amplifiers.

324
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Sinusoidal Steady State Analysis”.

1. i(t) = ?

a) 20 cos (300t + 68.2) A


b) 20 cos(300t – 68.2) A
c) 2.48 cos(300t + 68.2) A
d) 2.48 cos(300t – 68.2) A
View Answer

325
Answer: d

Explanation:

2. Vc(t) = ?

a) 0.89 cos (1000t – 63.43) V


b) 0.89 cos (1000t + 63.43) V
c) 0.45 cos (1000t + 26.57) V
d) 0.45 cos (1000t – 26.57) V
View Answer

Answer: a

Explanation:

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3. Vc(t) = ?

a) 2.25 cos (5t + 150) V


b) 2.25 cos (5t – 150) V
c) 2.25 cos (5t + 140.71) V
d) 2.25 cos (5t – 140.71) V
View Answer

Answer: d

Explanation:

4. i(t) = ?

a) 2 sin (2t 5.77) A


b) cos (2t 84.23) A
c) 2 sin (2t 5.77) A

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d) cos (2t 84.23) A
View Answer

Answer: b

Explanation:

5. In the bridge shown, Z1 = 300 ohm, Z2 = 400 – j300 ohm, Z3 = 200 + j100 ohm. The Z4 at
balance is

328
a) 400 + j300 ohm
b) 400 – j300 ohm
c) j100 ohm
d) -j900 ohm
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Use Z1 x Z4 = Z2 x Z3.

Circuit for Q.6 and Q.7

6. i1(t) = ?
a) 2.36 cos (4t 41.07) A
b) 2.36 cos (4t 41.07) A
c) 1.37 cos (4t 41.07) A
d) 2.36 cos (4t 41.07) A
View Answer

329
Answer: c

Explanation:

7. i2(t) = ?
a) 2.04 sin (4t 92.13) A
b) 2.04 sin (4t 2.13) A
c) 2.04 cos (4t 2.13) A
d) 2.04 cos (4t 92.13) A
View Answer

330
Answer: b

Explanation:

8. In a two element series circuit, the applied voltage and the resulting current are v(t) = 60 + 66
sin (1000t) V, i(t) = 2.3sin (1000t + 68.3) 3 A. The nature of the elements would be
a) R C
b) L C
c) R L
d) R R
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: RC circuit causes a positive shift in the circuit.

9. P = 269 W, Q = 150 VAR (capacitive). The power in the complex form is


a) 150 – j269 VA
b) 150 + j269 VA
c) 269 – j150 VA
d) 269 + j150 VA
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: S = P – jQ.

10. Q = 2000 VAR, pf = 0.9 (leading). The power in complex form is


a) 4129.8 j2000 VA
b) 2000 j4129.8 VA
c) 2000 j41.29.8 VA
d) 4129.8 j2000 VA
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Use cos T = 0.9 or T = 25.84 degrees.
Q = S sin T or S = 4588.6 VA
p = S cos T or P = 0.9 X 4588.6 4129.8 VA.

331
9. Questions & Answers on Operational Amplifiers

The section contains questions and answers on ideal operational amplifiers, inverting and non-
inverting configuration, differentiators and differential amplifiers, operational amplifiers, finite
open loop gain effect, circuit performance bandwidth and large signal operations.

Integrators and Differentiators


The Ideal Operational Amplifiers
DC Imperfections in Operational Amplifiers
The Inverting Configuration
Effect of Finite Open-Loop gain and Bandwidth on
The Non Inverting Configuration
Circuit Perfomance
Difference Amplifiers
Large Signal Operations on operational Amplifiers

332
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “The Ideal Operational Amplifiers”.

1. What is the minimum number of terminals required in an IC package containing four


operational amplifiers (quad op amps)?
a) 12
b) 13
c) 14
d) 15
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The minimum no of pins required by dual-op-amp is 8. Each op-amp has 2 input
terminals(4 pins) and one output terminal(2 pins). Another 2 pins are required for power.
Similarly, The minimum no of pins required by dual-op-amp is 14: 4*2 + 4*1 + 2 = 14.

2. Which of the following is not a property of an ideal operational amplifier?


a) Zero input impedance
b) Infinite bandwidth
c) Infinite open loop gain
d) Zero common-mode gain or conversely infinite common mode-rejection.
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: An ideal operational amplifier does not has a zero input impedance.

333
3. In an ideal op amp the open-loop gain is 103. The op amp is used in a feedback circuit, and the
voltages appearing at two of its three signal terminals are measured as v2 = 0V and v3 = 2V
where it is assumed that v1 and v2 are input terminals and v3 is the output terminal. The value of
the differential (vd) and common-mode (vcm)signal is
a) Vd = 2 mV and vcm = 1 mv
b) Vd = 2 mV and vcm = -1 mV
c) Vd = 2 mV and vcm = 2mV
d) Vd = 2 mV and vcm = -2mV
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Vc = 0.5(V1 + V2) and
Vd = V2 – V1.

4. Consider the figure given below. Known that vo = 4V and vi = 2V, determine the gain for the
op amp assuming that it is ideal except for the fact that it has finite gain

a) 1001
b) 2002
c) 3003
d) 4004
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The Voltage at the positive input has to be -3.000v, vi = -3.020v
A = vo / vi – vr = -2 / -3.020 -(-3) = 100.

5. Which of the following is not a terminal for the operational amplifier?


a) Inverting terminal
b) Non-inverting terminal
c) Output terminal
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

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Answer: d
Explanation: There are three terminals for the operational amplifier.

6. Operational amplifiers are


a) Differential input and single-ended output type amplifier
b) Single-ended input and single-ended output type amplifier
c) Single-ended input and differential output type amplifier
d) Differential input and differential output type amplifier
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: It is another way to refer to op amps based on its terminal characteristics.

7. Express the input voltages v1 and v2 in terms of differential input (vd) and common-mode
input(vc). Given v2 > v2.
a) Vd = V1 – V2, Vc = 0.5(V1 + V2)
b) Vd = V2 – V1, Vc = V1 + V2
c) Vd = V1 – V2, Vc = V1 + V2
d) Vd = V2 – V1, Vc = 0.5(V1 + V2)
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: This is the correct mathematical representation.

8. What is the minimum number of pins for a dual operational amplifier IC package?
a) 4
b) 6
c) 8
d) 10
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The minimum no of pins required by dual-op-amp is 8. Each op-amp has 2 input
terminals(4 pins) and one output terminal(2 pins). Another 2 pins are required for power.

9. For an ideal operational amplifier (except for the fact that it has finite gain) one set of the
value for the input voltages (v2 is the positive terminal v1 is the negative terminal) and output
voltage (v0) as determined experimentally is v1= 2.01V, v2=2.00V and v0= -0.99V. Experiment
was carried with different values of input and output voltages. Which of the following is not
possible considering experimental error?
a) v1= 1.99V, v2= 2.00V, v0 = 1.00V
b) v1= 1.00V, v2= 1.00V, v0 = 0V

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c) v1= 1.00V, v2= 1.10V, v0 = 10.1V
d) v1= 0.99V, v2= 2.00V, v0 = 1.00V
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Only option d does not satisfies the mathematical relation between the given
quantities.

10. What are the units of slew rate?


a) Second/Volt
b) Volt/second
c) It is a ratio, no units
d) Ohm/second
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: These units are obtained from the definition of the term slew rate.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “The Inverting Configuration”.

1. When does a resistance provide a negative feedback to an amplifier?


a) Resistance is connected between the positive input terminal and the output terminal
b) Resistance is connected between the negative input terminal and the output terminal
c) Resistance is connected between the input terminals
d) Resistance is connected between the negative input terminal and ground
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: An op amp is said to have a negative feedback when a resistance is connected
between the input and output terminals respectively.

2. The effect of the inverting configuration is


a) The output signal and the input signal are out of phase by 180o
b) The output signal and the input signal are in phase
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c) The output phase is leading the input phase by 90o
d) The output phase is lagging behind the input phase by 90o
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Inverting introduces a phase shift of 180o or it ‘inverts’ a peak.

3. For an ideal negative feedback configuration which of the following is true?


a) There is a virtual open circuit between the input terminals
b) The closed loop gain for a negative feedback does not depend only on the external parameters
c) There is a virtual short circuit between the input terminals
d) There is a virtual ground at the negative input terminal
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: There is always a virtual short circuit in this type of case. There will be a virtual
ground if and only if one of the terminals is grounded.

4. The negative feedback causes


a) The voltage between the two input terminals to the very small, ideally zero
b) The voltage between the two input resistance very high, ideally infinite
c) Current flow through the positive input terminal and no current flows through the negative
input terminal
d) Both a and c
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Ideally the input terminals are at the same potential but in real practice there is a
very small potential between the two terminals.

5. The non-inverting closed loop configuration features a high resistance. Therefore in many
cases unity gain follower called buffer amplifier is often used to
a) Connect a high resistance source to high resistance load
b) Connect low resistance source to low resistance load
c) Connect low resistance source to a high resistance source
d) Connect high resistance source to a low resistance load
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Buffer amplifiers are required to connect a high resistance load to a low input
resistance output.

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6. The advantage of a weighted summer operational amplifier is
a) It is capable of summing various input voltages together
b) Each input signal may be independently adjusted by adjusting the corresponding input
resistance
c) If one needs both sign of a voltage signal then two operational amplifiers are needed
d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: All of the mentioned are characteristics of a weighted summer operational amplifier
over the traditional amplifier.

7. The following is a circuit of weighted summer capable of summing coefficients of both sign.
The expressions for the output voltage v0 is

a) v0 = v1 (R1/Ra ) (Rc/Rb ) + v1 (Ra/R2 ) (Rc/Rb ) – v1 (Rc/R3 ) – v1 (Rc/R4 )


b) v0 = – v1 (R1/Ra ) (Rc/Rb ) – v1 (Ra/R2 ) (Rc/Rb ) + v1 (Rc/R3 ) + v1 (Rc/R4 )
c) v0 = v1 (Ra/R1 ) (Rc/Rb ) + v1 (Ra/R2 ) (Rc/Rb ) – v1 (Rc/R3 ) – v1 (Rc/R4 )
d) v0 = – v1 (Ra/R1 ) (Rc/Rb ) – v1 (Ra/R2 ) (Rc/Rb ) + v1 (Rc/R3 ) + v1 (Rc/R4 )
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The voltages are increased first by the left side of the portion and then are also
magnified by the right side of the circuit. There are four inputs given out of which two are
magnified twice and the other are magnified only once.

8. You are provided with an ideal op amp and three 10kΩ resistors. Using series and parallel
resistor combinations, how many different inverting-amplifier circuit topologies are possible?
a) 2
b) 3
c) 4
d) 5
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Consider series and parallel combination of the resistances provided and arrange
then in the feedback region and as output resistance.

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9. The loop gain for an ideal operational amplifier with R1 = 10kΩ and R2(negative feedback) =
1MΩ is
a) 20 db
b) 40 db
c) 60 db
d) 80 db
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Loop gain in this case is given by 20 log (1000000/10000).

10. In an inverting op-amp circuit for which the gain is −4 V/V and the total resistance used is
100 kΩ. Then the value of R1 and R2 (negative feedback)
a) R1 = 20KΩ and R1 = 80KΩ
b) R1 = 80KΩ and R1 = 20KΩ
c) R1 = 40KΩ and R1 = 60KΩ
d) R1 = 50KΩ and R1 = 50KΩ
View Answer

Answer = a
Explanation: Solve R1 + R2 = 100
R2/R1 = 4 for R1 and R2 respectively.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “The Non Inverting Configuration”.

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1. In the non-inverting configuration of operational amplifier
a) The positive terminal is connected to the ground directly
b) The negative terminal is connected to the ground directly
c) The positive terminal is connected to the power source
d) The negative terminal is connected to the power source
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Non inverting configuration requires a power source connected to the power
source.

2. For ideal non-inverting operational amplifier


a) Input and output resistances are infinite
b) Input resistance is infinite and output resistance is zero
c) Input resistance is zero and output resistance is infinite
d) Input and output resistances are zero
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: It is an ideal characteristic of the non-inverting op amp.

3. For an ideal non-inverting operational amplifier having finite gain (A), the ratio of output
voltage (v0) to input voltage (vi) is (given R2 is the feedback resistance)
a) (1+R2/R1)/(1+((1+R2/R1)/A))
b) (R2/R1)/(((1+R2/R1)/A))
c) (1+R2/R1)/(((1+R2/R1)/A))
d) (R2/R1)/(1+((1+R2/R1)/A))
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: It is a standard mathematical expression.

4. The gain for an ideal non-inverting operational amplifier is (given R2 is the feedback
resistance)
a) R2/R1 – 1
b) R2/R1
c) -R2/R1
d) R2/R1 + 1
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: It is a standard mathematical expression.

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5. While performing an experiment to determine the gain for an ideal operational amplifier
having finite gain, a student mistakenly used the equation 1 + R2/R1 where R2 is the feedback
resistance. What is the percentage error in his result? Given A is the finite voltage gain of the
ideal amplifier used.
a) (R2/R1)/(A+ R2/R1) X 100%
b) (1+R2/R1)/(A+R2/R1) X 100%
c) (1+R2/R1)/(A+1+R2/R1) X 100%
d) (R2/R1)/(A+1+R2/R1) X 100%
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The correct formula is (1+R2/R1)/(1+((1+R2/R1)/A)).

6. The finite voltage gain of a non-inverting operational amplifier is A and the resistance used is
R1 and R2 in which R2 is the feedback resistance. Under what conditions it can one use the
expression 1 + R2/R1 to determine the gain of the amplifier?
a) A ~ R2/R1
b) A >> R2/R1
c) A << R2/R1
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The formula is valid for the ideal case in which the value of A is infinite, practically
it should be very large when compared to R2/R1 .

7. Which of the following is not true for a voltage follower amplifier?


a) Input voltage is equal to output voltage
b) Input resistance is infinite and output resistance is zero
c) It has 100% negative feedback
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: All the statements are false.

8. For designing a non-inverting amplifier with a gain of 2 at the maximum output voltage of 10
V and the current in the voltage divider is to be 10 μA the resistance required are R1 and R2
where R2 is used to provide negative feedback. Then
a) R1 = 0.5 MΩ and R2 = 0.5 MΩ
b) R1 = 0.5 kΩ and R2 = 0.5 kΩ
c) R1 = 5 MΩ and R2 = 5 MΩ

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d) R1 = 5 kΩ and R2 = 5 kΩ
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: 1 + R2/R1 = 2 and 10/(R1+R2) = 10 μA. Solve for R1 and R2.

9. It is required to connect a transducer having an open-circuit voltage of 1 V and a source


resistance of 1 MΩ to a load of 1-kΩ resistance. Find the load voltage if the connection is done
(a) directly and (b) through a unity-gain voltage follower.
a) 1 μV and 1 mV respectively
b) 1 mV and 1 V respectively
c) 0.1 μV and 0.1 mV respectively
d) 0.1 mV and 0.1 V respectively
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: When a unity gain follower is uses then input signal is equal to output signal. When
connected directly, output signal is given by 1 X 1kΩ/1MΩ or 1mV.

10. Consider the figure given below. If the resistance R1 is disconnected from the ground and
connected to a third power source v3, then expression for the value of
v0 is

a) 2v1 + 4v2 − 3v3


b) 6v1 + 8v2 − 3v3
c) 6v1 + 4v2 − 9v3
d) 3v1 + 4v2 − 3v3
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: When a third power source is connected to the resistance of 1kΩ, then also the
potential between the two input terminals of op amps remains the same. Using this fact the
expression c is obtained.

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Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Difference Amplifiers”.

1. For the difference amplifier which of the following is true?


a) It responds to the difference between the two signals and rejects the signal that are common to
both the signal
b) It responds to the signal that are common to the two inputs only
c) It has a low value of input resistance
d) The efficacy of the amplifier is measured by the degree of its differential signal to the
preference of the common mode signal
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: All the statements are not true except for the fact that it responds only when there is
difference between two signals only.

2. If for an amplifier the common mode input signal is vc, the differential signal id vd and Ac and
Ad represent common mode gain and differential gain respectively, then the output voltage v0 is
given by
a) v0 = Ad vd – Ac vc
b) v0 = – Ad vd + Ac vc
c) v0 = Ad vd + Ac vc
d) v0 = – Ad vd – Ac vc
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: It is a standard mathematical expression.

3. If for an amplifier v1 and v2 are the input signals, vc and vd represent the common mode and
differential signals respectively, then the expression for CMRR (Common Mode Rejection
Ratio) is
a) 20 log (|Ad| / |Ac|)
b) -10 log (|Ac| / |Ad|)2
c) 20 log (v2 – v1 / 0.5(v2 + v1))

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d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Note that all the expressions are identical.

4. The problem with the single operational difference amplifier is its


a) High input resistance
b) Low input resistance
c) Low output resistance
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Due to low input resistance a large part of the signal is lost to the source’s internal
resistance.

5. For the difference amplifier as shown in the figure show that if each resistor has a tolerance of
±100 ε % (i.e., for, say, a 5% resistor, ε = 0.05) then the worst-case CMRR is given
approximately by (given K = R2/R1 = R4/R3)

a) 20 log [K+1/4ε].
b) 20 log [K+1/2ε].
c) 20 log [K+1/ε].
d) 20 log [2K+2/ε].
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: None.

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6. For the circuit given below determine the input common mode resistance.

a) (R1 + R3) || (R2) || + (R4)


b) (R1 + R4) || (R2 + R3)
c) (R1 + R2) || (R3 + R4)
d) (R1 + R3) || (R2 + R4)
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Parallel combination of series combination of R1 & R3 with the series combination
of R3 and R4 is the required answer as is visible by the circuit.

7. For the circuit shown below express v0 as a function of v1 and v2.

a) v0 = v1 + v2
b) v0 = v2 – v1
c) v0 = v1 – v2
d) v0 = -v1 – v2
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Considering the fact that the potential at the input terminals are identical and
proceeding we obtain the given result.

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8. For the difference amplifier shown below, let all the resistors be 10kΩ ± x%. The expression
for the worst-case common-mode gain is

a) x / 50
b) x / 100
c) 2x / (100 – x)
d) 2x / (100 + x)
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: None.

9. Determine Ad and Ac for the given circuit.

a) Ac = 0 and Ad = 1
b) Ac ≠ 0 and Ad = 1
c) Ac = 0 and Ad ≠ 1
d) Ac ≠ 0 and Ad ≠ 1
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Consider the fact that the potential at the input terminals are identical and obtain the
values of V1 and V2. Thus obtain the value of Vd and Vc.

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10. Determine the voltage gain for the given circuit known that R1 = R3 = 10kΩ abd R2 = R4 =
100kΩ.

a) 1
b) 10
c) 100
d) 1000
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Voltage gain is 100/10.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Integrators and Differentiators”.

1. The other name for Miller Circuit is


a) Non-Inverting Integrator
b) Inverting Integrator
c) Non-Inverting Differentiator
d) Inverting Differentiator
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Miller Circuit is also called Inverting integrator.

2. The slope of the frequency response of an integrator is


a) Linear with negative slope
b) Linear with positive slope
c) Exponential increase

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d) Exponential decrease
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The slope is linear and negative.

3. The integrating transfer function has the value of


a) jωCR
b) –jωCR
c) 1 / jωCR
d) -1 / jωCR
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Standard mathematical expression for the transfer function.

4. The expression for the integration frequency is


a) CR
b) 1/CR
c) R/C
d) C/R
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Standard mathematical expression for the integrator frequency.

5. Determine the expression for the transfer function for the circuit shown below.

a) (Rf/R)/(1+jωCRfC)

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b) (Rf/R)/(1-jωCRfC)
c) – (Rf/R)/(1+jωCRfC)
d) – (Rf/R)/(1-jωCRfC)
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: It is a standard expression.

6. The frequency transfer function of a differentiator is given by


a) jωCR
b) 1/jωCR
c) – jωCR
d) – 1/jωCR
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Standard mathematical expression for the transfer function of a differentiator.

7. The slope of the frequency response of a differentiator is


a) Linear with negative slope
b) Linear with positive slope
c) Exponential increase
d) Exponential decrease
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The slope is linear with a positive slope.

8. The phase in the integrator and differentiator circuit respectively are


a) +90 degrees and +90 degrees
b) -90 degrees and -90 degrees
c) -90 degrees and +90 degrees
d) +90 degrees and -90 degrees
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: These are the characteristics of the integrators and differentiators circuits
respectively.

9. Consider a symmetrical square wave of 20-V peak-to-peak, 0 average, and 2-ms period
applied to a Miller integrator. Find the value of the time constant CR such that the triangular
waveform at the output has a 20-V peak-to-peak amplitude.

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a) 0.25ms
b) 0.50ms
c) 2.5ms
d) 5.0ms
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: According to the question 1/CR = 2.

10. The expression for the differentiator time constant is


a) CR
b) 1/CR
c) R/C
d) C/R
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Standard mathematical expression for the time constant for the differentiators.

“DC Imperfections in Operational Amplifiers”.

1. Consider an inverting amplifier with a nominal gain of 1000 constructed from an op amp with
an input offset voltage of 3 mV and with output saturation levels of ±10 V. What is
(approximately) the peak sine-wave input signal that can be applied without output clipping?
a) 7 mV
b) 10 mV

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c) 13 mV
d) 9mV
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The maximum that can be sent without clipping is 10V – 1000 X 3mV or 7V.

(Q2 & Q.3) Consider an inverting amplifier with a nominal gain of 1000 constructed from an op
amp with an input offset voltage of 3 mV and with output saturation levels of ±10 V. If the effect
of VOs(input offset voltage) is nulled at room temperature (250C), how large an input can one
now apply if:

2. The circuit is to operate at a constant temperature?


a) 8.5 mV
b) 9 mV
c) 9.5 mV
d) 10 mV
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Explanation: Maximum signal that will not be clipped is 10mV because 10mV X
1000 = 10V.

3. The circuit is to operate at a temperature in the range 0°C to 75°C and the temperature
coefficient of VOS is 10 μV/°C?
a) 8.5 mV
b) 9 mV
c) 9.5 mV
d) 10 mV
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Since the effect is nullified at 25oC, the peak that can be sent now is given by 10 –
(75-25) X 0.1 mV.

4. One of the DC imperfections of the amplifiers are dc offset voltage which is


a) Existence of output signal even when the common mode signal is zero
b) Existence of common mode signal causing zero output signal
c) Existence of output signal even when the differential signal is zero
d) Existence of differential signal causing zero output signal
View Answer

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Answer: c
Explanation: DC offset voltage is existence of output signal even when the differential signal is
zero.

5. For the amplifier shown determine the value of the bias current (Ib) and input offset current
(Io) respectively.

a) Ib = IB1 + IB2 Io = IB1 – IB2


b) Ib = IB1 + IB2 Io = | IB1 – IB2 |
c) Ib = 0.5(IB1 + IB2) Io = | IB1 – IB2 |
d) Ib = 0.5(IB1 + IB2) Io = IB1 – IB2
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Standard mathematical expressions are used with the given variables.

6. Consider the circuit shown below which reduces the impact of the input bias current. If IB1 =
IB2 = Input bias current, then determine the value of R3 so that the output voltage (v0) is not
impacted by the input bias current.

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a) (R1 R2)/(R1+R2)
b) (R1 R2)/(R1-R2)
c) R1-(R1 R2)/(R1+R2)
d) R2- (R1 R2)/(R1+R2)
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: This will be possible when R3 has the same value as the net effect of R1 and R2.

7. Consider an inverting amplifier circuit designed using an op amp and two resistors, R1 = 10
kΩ and R2 = 1 MΩ. If the op amp is specified to have an input bias current of 100 nA and an
input offset current of 10 nA, find the output dc offset voltage resulting.
a) 0.1 mV
b) 1 mV
c) 10 mV
d) 100 mV
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Use the mathematical definition of bias current and offset current.

(Q.8-Q.10) Consider a Miller integrator with a time constant of 1ms and an input resistance of 10
kΩ. Let the op amp have VOS (offset voltage) = 2 mV and output saturation voltages of ±12 V.

8. Assuming that when the power supply is turned on the capacitor voltage is zero, how long
does it take for the amplifier to saturate?
a) 3s
b) 6s
c) 9s
d) 12s
View Answer

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Answer: b
Explanation: Use vO = VOS
(VOS/CR)t.

9. Select the largest possible value for a feedback resistor RF so that at least ±10 V of output
signal swing remains available.
a) 10 kΩ
b) 100 kΩ
c) 1 MΩ
d) 10 MΩ
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Use vO = VOS
(VOS/CR)t.

10. What is the corner frequency of the resulting STC network?


a) 1 Hz
b) 0.16 Hz
c) 0.33 Hz
d) 0.5 Hz
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The required answer is given by 1/6 Hz.

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Questions & Answers focuses on “Effect of Finite Open-Loop gain and Bandwidth on Circuit
Performance”.

1. An internally compensated op amp is specified to have an open-loop dc gain of 106 dB and a


unity gain bandwidth of 3 MHz. Find fb and the open-loop gain at fb.
a) 15Hz and 103 db
b) 30Hz and 103 db
c) 15 Hz and 51.5 db
d) 30 Hz and 51.5 db
View Answer

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Answer: a
Explanation: Use the equations below.

2. A single-pole model has __________ db/decade roll-off of the gain.


a) -3 db/decade
b) -6 db/decade
c) -10 db/decade
d) -20 db/decade
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: It is a standard characteristic of a single-pole model.

3. Single-pole model is also known as


a) Frequent pole
b) Stable pole
c) Dominant pole
d) Responsive pole
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Single-pole model is also called dominant pole.

4. An op amp having a 106-dB gain at dc and a single-pole frequency response with ft = 2 MHz
is used to design a non-inverting amplifier with nominal dc gain of 100. The 3-dB frequency of
the closed-loop gain is
a) 10 kHz
b) 20 kHz
c) 30 kHz
d) 40 kHz
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation:

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Use the equation below to obtain a frequency response curve and proceed further.

5. An internally compensated op amp has a dc open-loop gain of 106 V/V and an AC open-loop
gain of 40 dB at 10 kHz. Estimate its gain–bandwidth product and its expected gain at 1 kHz.
a) 0.1 MHz and -60 db
b) 10 MHz and -60 db
c) 10 MHz and 60 db
d) 1 MHz and 60 db
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanations: Use the following results.

6. An inverting amplifier with nominal gain of −20 V/V employs an op amp having a dc gain of
104 and a unity-gain frequency of 106 Hz. What is the 3-dB frequency f3dB of the closed-loop
amplifier?
a) 2π 23.8 kHz
b) 2π 47.6 kHz
c) 2π 71.4 kHz
d) 2π 95.2 kHz
View Answer

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Answer: b
Explanation:

7. cascading two identical amplifier stages, each having a low-pass STC frequency response with
a 3dB frequency f1, results in an overall amplifier with a 3dB frequency given by
a) √(√2+1) f1
b) √(√3-1) f1
c) √(√2-1) f1
d) √(√3+1) f1
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation:

8. Find the ft required for internally compensated op amps to be used in the implementation of
the closed loop amplifiers with dc gain of +100 V/V and 3db bandwidth of 100kHz?
a) 1 kHz
b) 10 kHz
c) 100 kHz
d) 1 MHz
View Answer

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Answer: b
Explanation: None

9. A particular op amp, characterized by a gain–bandwidth product of 20 MHz, is operated with


a closed-loop gain of +100 V/V. What 3-dB bandwidth results? At what frequency does the
closed-loop amplifier exhibit a −6° phase shift?
a) 21 kHz
b) 31.5 kHz
c) 42 kHz
d) 52.5 kHz
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation:

10. Find the ft required for internally compensated op amps to be used in the implementation of
the closed loop amplifiers with dc gain of -2 V/V and 3db bandwidth of 10 MHz?
a) 7.5 MHz
b) 15 MHz
c) 22.5 MHz
d) 30 MHz
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: -R2 ⁄ R1 = -2V⁄V
f3db = 10 MHZ ft = 10 MHZ(2 + 1) = 30 MHZ.

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“Large Signal Operations on operational Amplifiers”.

1. Slew rate of an amplifier is defined as


a) Minimum rate of change of the output possible in a real operational amplifier
b) Maximum rate of change of the output possible in a real operational amplifier
c) Average rate of change of the output possible in a real operational amplifier
d) Ratio of the maximum and the average rate of change of the output in a real amplifier
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: By definition slew rate is the maximum rate of change of the output possible in a
real operational amplifier.

2. Determine the slew rate of the amplifier having full power bandwidth f0 and the rated output
voltage as V0. Given that the input signal is of sinusoidal nature.
a) 2πf0 V0
b) V0 / 2πf0
c) V0 / f0
d) f0 V0
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: v = V0sin wt
dv/dt = wV0 sin wt
max value of dv/dt = wV0
max value of w = w0 = 2πf0
w0 V0 = Slew Rate = 2πf0 V0.

3. The units of the full power bandwidth is


a) Watt
b) Joule
c) Seconds
d) Hertz
View Answer

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Answer: d
Explanation: It has the units of frequency.

4. The full-power bandwidth, fM, is the maximum frequency at which


a) an output sinusoid with an amplitude equal to the op-amp rated output voltage (Vo max) can be
produced without distortion
b) it is the range of the frequencies in which the amplitude of output signal is equal to or greater
than half of the op-amp rated output voltage
c) it is the range of the frequencies in which the amplitude of output signal is equal to or less than
half of the op-amp rated output voltage
d) It is the range of the frequencies in which the power gain is half or more than half of the
maximum rated power gain of the op-amp
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: This is the only statement that satisfies the definition of the full-power bandwidth.

5. Which of the following is not limitation of the operational amplifier


a) Output voltage saturation
b) Output current limits
c) Slew rate
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: None of the mentioned are the limitations of the operational amplifier.

6. A particular op amp using ±15-V supplies operates linearly for outputs in the range −12 V to
+12 V. If used in an inverting amplifier configuration of gain –100, what is the rms value of the
largest possible sine wave that can be applied at the input without output clipping?
a) 120 mV
b) 60 mV
c) 84.85 mV
d) 42.42 mV
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Peak value of input wave = 12/100 or 120 mV. Hence the rms value is 120/√2 or
84.85 mV.

7. For operation with 10-V output pulses with the requirement that the sum of the rise and fall
times represent only 20% of the pulse width (at half amplitude), what is the slew-rate

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requirement for an op amp to handle pulses 2 µs wide? (Note: The rise and fall times of a pulse
signal are usually measured between the 10%- and 90%-height points.)
a) 10 V/µs
b) 20 V/µs
c) 40 V/µs
d) 80 V/µs
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: None.

8. An op amp having a slew rate of 20 V/µs is to be used in the unity-gain follower


configuration, with input pulses that rise from 0 to 3 V. What is the shortest pulse that can be
used while ensuring full-amplitude output?
a) 0.10 µs
b) 0.15 µs
c) 0.20 µs
d) 0.30 µs
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Time taken to reach 3V from 0V with slew rate of 20V/µs is 3/20 µs or 0.15 µs.

(Q.9-Q.10) In designing with op amps one has to check the limitations on the voltage and
frequency ranges of operation of the closed-loop amplifier, imposed by the op-amp finite
bandwidth (ft), slew rate (SR), and output saturation (Vo max). Consider the use of an op amp with
ftt = 2 MHz, SR = 1 V/µs, and V0 max = 10 V in the design of a non-inverting amplifier with a
nominal gain of 10. Assume a sine-wave input with peak amplitude Vi.

9. If Vi = 0.5 V, what is the maximum frequency before the output distorts?


a) 31.8 kHz
b) 318 kHz
c) 3.18 kHz
d) 3.18 MHz
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Vi = 0.5v, V0 = 0.5 X 10 = 5V
2πf V0 = SR or f = 31.8 kHz.

10. If f = 20 kHz, what is the maximum value of Vi before the output distorts?
a) 0.397 V

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b) 0.795 V
c) 1.192 V
d) 1.590 V
View Answer

Explanation: V0 = 10Vi
2πf V0 = SR = 20πf Vi, here f is 20 kHz, SR is 1 V/µs. Hence the value of Vi is 0.795 V.

10. Questions on MOS Field Effect Transistors (MOSFETs)

The section contains questions and answers on basics of MOSFET, device structure, physical
and small signal operation of MOSFET, basics of MOSFET configurations and circuit biasing,
body effect and discrete MOSFET circuits.

MOSFETs Device Strucuture and Physical Operation


Basic MOSFET Amplifier Configurations
MOSFETs Current-Voltage Characterisitcs
Biasing in MOS Amplifier Circuit
MOSFETs Circuits at DC
Discrete-Circuit MOS Amplifiers
MOSFET in Amplfier Design
The Body Effect
MOSFET in Small Signal Operation

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Questions and Answers for Campus interviews focuses on “MOSFETs Device Strucuture and
Physical Operation”.

1. For NMOS transistor which of the following is not true?


a) The substrate is of p-type semiconductor
b) Inversion layer or induced channel is of n type
c) Threshold voltage is negative
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The threshold voltage is positive for NMOS.

2. Process transconductance parameter is directly proportional to


a) Electron mobility only
b) (Electron mobility)-1 only

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c) Oxide capacitance only
d) Product of oxide capacitance and electron mobility
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: It is the product of the electronic mobility with the oxide capacitance (F/m2).

3. The SI Units of the Process transconductance Parameter (k’) is


a) V2/A
b) A/V2
c) V/A
d) A/V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: k’ = μn Cox where μn is electronic mobility (m2/Vs) and Cox is oxide capacitance is
(F/m2).

4. Aspect ratio of the MOSFET has the units of


a) No units
b) m
c) m2
d) m-1
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: It is the ratio of the induced channel width (w) to the induced channel length (l).

5. The MOSFET transconductance parameter is the product of


a) Process transconductance and inverse of aspect ratio
b) Inverse of Process transconductance and aspect ratio
c) Inverse of Process transconductance and inverse of aspect ratio
d) Process transconductance and aspect ratio
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: This statement only satisfies the mathematical expression.

6. With the potential difference between the source and the drain kept small (VDS is small), the
MOSFET behaves as a resistance whose value varies __________ with the overdrive voltage
a) Linearly
b) Inversely

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c) Exponentially
d) Logarithmically
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: For small VDS, resistance r is given by
R = 1 / ((μn Cox)(w/l)(VOV)).

7. For a p channel MOSFET which of the following is not true?


a) The source and drain are a p type semiconductor
b) The induced channel is p type region which is induced by applying a positive potential to the
gate
c) The substrate is a n type semiconductor
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The induced channel is p type region which is induced by applying a negative
potential to the gate.

8. When the voltage across the drain and the source (VDS) is increased from a small amount
(assuming that the gate voltage, VG with respect to the source is higher than the threshold
voltage, Vt), then the width of the induced channel in NMOS (assume that VDS is always small
when compared to the Vov)
a) Will remain as was before
b) Will become non uniform and will take a tapered shape with deepest width at the drain
c) Will become non uniform and will take a tapered shape with deepest width at the source
d) Will remain uniform but the width of the channel will increase
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The voltage across the source will be VOV and the voltage will decrease linearly to
VOV – VDS as we reach the drain end. The width of the induced channel is proportional to the
voltage.

9. The saturation current of the MOSFET is the value of the current when
a) The voltage between the drain and drain becomes equal to the overdrive voltage
b) The voltage between the drain and drain becomes equal to the threshold voltage
c) The voltage between the drain and drain becomes equal to the voltage applied to the gate
d) The voltage between the drain and drain becomes equal to difference the overdrive voltage
and the threshold voltage
View Answer

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Answer: a
Explanation: By definition of the MOSFET saturation current.

10. At channel pinch off


a) The width of the induced channel becomes non linear
b) The width of the induced channel becomes very large (resulting in very large resistance and
very low, practically zero, current)
c) width becomes 1/e times the maximum possible width
d) The width of the induced channel becomes zero and the current saturates
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: It is a characteristics of a channel pinch off.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “MOSFETs Current-Voltage Characterisitcs”.

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1. If a MOSFET is to be used in the making of an amplifier then it must work in
a) Cut-off region
b) Triode region
c) Saturation region
d) Both cut-off and triode region can be used
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Only in the saturation region a MOSFET can operate as an amplifier.

2. For MOSFET is to be used as a switch then it must operate in


a) Cut-off region
b) Triode region
c) Saturation region
d) Both cut-off and triode region can be used
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: In both regions it can perform the task of a switch.

(Q.3 & Q.4) Using the circuit shown below,

3. Determine the conditions in which the MOSFET is operating in the triode region.
i. VGD > Vt (Threshold voltage)
ii. VDS > VOV
iii. ID ∝ (VOV – 0.5VDS)VDS

a) i, ii, and iii are correct


b) i and iii are correct
c) i and ii are correct
d) ii and iii are correct
View Answer

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Answer: b
Explanation: Only the points I and iii are correct and ii is false.

4. Determine the conditions in which the MOSFET is operating in the saturation region
i. VGD > Vt (Threshold voltage)
ii. VDS > VOV
iii. ID ∝ (VOV)2

a) i, ii, and iii are correct


b) i and iii are correct
c) i and ii are correct
d) ii and iii are correct
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: i is false and ii and iii are true.

5. In the saturation region of the MOSFET the saturation current is


a) Independent of the voltage difference between the source and the drain
b) Depends directly on the voltage difference between the source and the drain
c) Depends directly on the overdriving voltage
d) Depends directly on the voltage supplied to the gate terminal
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Saturation current does not depends on the voltage difference between the source
and the drain in the saturation region of a MOSFET.

6. An n-channel MOSFET operating with VOV=0.5V exhibits a linear resistance = 1 kΩ when


VDS is very small. What is the value of the device transconductance parameter kn?
a) 2 mA/V2
b) 20 mA/V2
c) 0.2 A/V2
d) 2 A/V2
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Use the standard mathematical expression to determine the value of kn.

7. An NMOS transistor is operating at the edge of saturation with an overdrive voltage VOV and a
drain current ID. If is VOV is doubled, and we must maintain operation at the edge of saturation,
what value of drain current results?

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a) 0.25ID
b) 0.5ID
c) 2ID
d) 4ID
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: I0 is directly proportional to VOS.

(Q.8-Q.10) Using the circuit below answer the question

8. Which of the following is true for the triode region?


a. VDG > Vtp
b. VSD < VOV
c. ID ∝ VOV
d. None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: VDG > |Vtp| and VSD < |VOV|.

9. Which of the following is true for the saturation region?


a) VDG ≤ |Vtp|
b) VSD ≤| VOV|
c) VDG < |Vtp|
d) VSD <| VOV|
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: It is a characteristic for the saturation region.

10. The current iD


a) Depends linearly on VOV in the saturation region
b) Depends on the square of VOV in the saturation region
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c) Depends inversely on VOV in the triode region
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Use the standard mathematical expressions for i0 in different regions.

Questions and Answers focuses on “MOSFETs Circuits at DC”.

1. The transistor in the circuit shown below has kn = 0.4 mA/V2, Vt = 0.5 V and λ = 0. Operation
at the edge of saturation is obtained when

a) (W/L)RD = 0.5 kΩ
b) (W/L)RD = 1.0 kΩ
c) (W/L)RD = 1.5 kΩ
d) (W/L)RD = 2.0 kΩ
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Use the standard formula for edge saturation.

2. The PMOS transistor in the circuit shown has Vt = −0.7 V, μpCox = 60 μA/V2, L = 0.8 μm, and
λ = 0. Find the value of R in order to establish a drain current of 0.115 mA and a voltage VD of
3.5 V.

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a) 12.5 KΩ
b) 25 kΩ
c) 37.5 kΩ
d) 50 kΩ
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation:

3. The NMOS transistors in the circuit shown have Vt = 1 V, μnCOX = 120 μA/V2, λ = 0, and L1 =
L2 = L3 = 1μm. Then which of the following is not the value of the width of these MOSFETs
shown
a) 2 µm
b) 8µm
c) All of the mentioned
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation:

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4. The MOSFET shown has Vt = 1V, kn = 100µA/V2 and λ = 0. Find the required values of W/L
and of R so that when vI = VDD = +5 V, rDS = 50 Ω, and VO = 50 mV.

a) W/L = 25 and R = 4.95 kΩ


b) W/L = 25 and R = 9.90 kΩ
c) W/L = 50 and R = 4.95 kΩ
d) W/L = 50 and R = 9.90 kΩ
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation:

(Q.5-Q.7) For each of the circuits shown find the labeled voltages. For all transistors, kn(W/L) =
1 mA/V2, Vt = 2V, and λ = 0
5. Find V3

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a) 2.41V
b) 3.41V
c) 4.41V
d) 1.41V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: V3 = 10- 4 * 2 + 1.4 = 3.4v.

6. Find V4 and V5

a) 4V and -5V respectively


b) -4V and 5V respectively
c) 4V and 5V respectively
d) -4V and -5V respectively
View Answer

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Answer: a

Explanation:

7. Find V1 and V2
a) 2V and -4V
b) -2V and 4V
c) 2V and 4V
d) -2V and -4V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: ID = 1 = 1⁄2 * 1 * (VGS – 2)2 => VGS = 3.41v.
V3 = 3.41v.

(Q.8 & Q.9) For each of the circuits shown find the labeled node voltages. The NMOS
transistors have Vt = 1 V and kn( W/L ) = 2 mA/V2 and λ = 0

8. Find V1 and V2

a) 2.44 and -1.28 V


b) 2.44 and -2.56 V
c) 1.22 and -2.56 V
d) 1.22 and -1.28 V
View Answer

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Answer: b
Explanation:

9. Find V3 and V4

a) 3.775V and 5V
b) 3.775V and 2.55V
c) 7.55V and 2.55V

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d) 7.555V and 5V
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation:

10. For the PMOS transistor in the circuit shown kn= 8 µA/V2, W/L = 25,|Vtp| = 1V and I =
100μA. For what value of R is VSD = VSG?

a) 0 Ω
b) 12.45 kΩ
c) 25.9 kΩ
d) 38.35 kΩ
View Answer

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Answer: a
Explanation: VSG will be equal to VSD only when the resistance shown is zero or in other words
there should not be any resistance.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “MOSFET in Amplfier Design”.

(Q.1 & Q.2) Various measurements are made on an NMOS amplifier for which the drain resistor
RD is 20 kΩ. First, DC measurements show the voltage across the drain resistor, VRD, to be 2 V
and the gate-to-source bias voltage to be 1.2 V. Then, ac measurements with small signals show
the voltage gain to be −10 V/V.

1. What is the value of Vt for this transistor?


a) 0.7V
b) 0.8V
c) 0.9V
d) 1.0V
View Answer

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Answer: b
Explanation:

2. If the process transconductance parameter is 50μA/V2, what is the MOSFET’s W/L?


a) 25
b) 50
c) 75
d) 100
View Answer

Answer: a

Explanation:

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(Q.3-Q.5) Consider the amplifier below for the case VDD = 5 V, RD = 24 kΩ, (W/L) = 1 mA/V2,
and Vt = 1 V.

3. If the amplifier is biased to operate with an overdrive voltage VOV of 0.5 V, find the
incremental gain at the bias point.
a) -3 V/V
b) -6 V/V
c) -9 V/V
d) -12 V/V
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation:

4. For amplifier biased to operate with an overdrive voltage of 0.5V, and disregarding the
distortion caused by the MOSFET’s square-law characteristic, what is the largest amplitude of a

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sine-wave voltage signal that can be applied at the input while the transistor remains in
saturation?
a) 1.61 V
b) 1.5 V
c) 0.11 V
d) 3.11 V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Use the standard mathematical formula to obtain the result.

5. For the input signal of 1.5V what is the value of the gain value obtained?
a) -12.24 V/V
b) -12.44 V/V
c) -12.64 V/V
d) -12.84 V/V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The amplitude of the output voltage signal that results is approximately equal to Voq
– VOB = 2 – 0.61 = 1.39v.
The gain implied by amplitude is
Gain = -1.39/0.11 = -12.64 V/V.

6. Which of the following is the fastest switching device?


a) JEFT
b) Triode
c) MOSFET
d) BJT
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: MOSFET is the fastest switching device among the given four options.

7. Bias point is also referred by the name


a) DC Operating Point
b) Quiescent Point
c) None of the mentioned
d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

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Answer: d
Explanation: Bias point is called dc operating point as the MOSFET functions best at this point.
Also since at the bias point no signal component is present it is called quiescent point (he reason
why it is represented by the symbol ‘Q’)

(Q.8 –Q.10) Consider the amplifier circuit shown below. The transistor is specified to have Vt =
0.4 V, kn = 0.4 mA/V2, W/L = 10 and λ = 0. Also, let VDD = 1.8V, RD = 17.5kΩ, VGS = 0.6V and
vgs = 0V.

8. Find ID.
a) 0.08 mA
b) 0.16 mA
c) 0.4 mA
d) 0.8 mA
View Answer

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Answer: a

Explanation:

9. Find VDS.
a) 0.1V
b) 0.2 V
c) 0.4 V
d) 0.8 V
View Answer

Answer: c

Explanation:

10. Find Av.


a) -12 V/V
b) -14 V/V
c) -16 V/V
d) -18 V/V
View Answer

Solution: b
Explanation: Av = – kn Vov RD
= -0.4 * 10 * 0.2 * 17.5
= – 14.4v

383
Questions and Answers focuses on “MOSFET in Small Signal Operation”.

1. An NMOS technology has μnCox = 50 μA/V2 and Vt = 0.7 V. For a transistor with L = 1μm,
find the value of W that results in gm 1mA/V at ID = 0.5 mA.
a) 10 μm
b) 20 μm
c) 30 μm
d) 40 μm
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation:

2. Consider an NMOS transistor having kn= 2 mA/V2. Let the transistor be biased at VOV = 1V.
For operation in saturation, what dc bias current ID results? If a +0.1-V signal is superimposed on
VGS, find the corresponding increment in collector current by evaluating the total collector
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current ID and subtracting the dc bias current ID.
a) ID = 1mA and Increment = 0.21 mA
b) ID = 1mA and Increment = 0.42 mA
c) ID = 2mA and Increment = 0.21 mA
d) ID = 2mA and Increment = 0.42 mA
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation:

3. We know ID =1/2 kn (VGS + vgs – Vt)2. Let the signal vgs be a sine wave with amplitude Vgs,
and substitute vgs = Vgs sin ω t in Eq.(5.43). Using the trigonometric identity show that the ratio
of the signal at frequency 2ω to that at frequency ω , expressed as a percentage (known as the
second-harmonic distortion) is
a) Vgs/Vov x 100%
b) 1/2Vgs/Vov x 100%
c) 1/4Vgs/Vov x 100%
d) 1/8Vgs/Vov x 100%
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation:

385
4. If in a particular application Vgs is 10 mV, find the minimum overdrive voltage at which the
transistor should be operated so that the second-harmonic distortion is kept to less than 1%.
a) 1V
b) 0.75V
c) 0.5V
d) 0.25V
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation:

(Q.5-Q.7) An NMOS amplifier is to be designed to provide a 0.50-V peak output signal across a
50-kΩ load that can be used as a drain resistor.

5. If a gain of at least 5 V/V is needed, what value of gm is required?


a) 0.1 mA/V
b) 0.2 mA/V
c) 0.4 mA/V
d) 0.8 mA/V
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: gmRd = 5 or gm= 5/50 mA/V.

6. Using a dc supply of 3 V, what values of ID and VOV would you choose?


a) 0.34 mA and 0.35 V respectively
b) 0.34 mA and 0.69 V respectively
c) 0.034 mA and 0.35 V respectively
d) 0.034 mA and 0.69 V respectively
View Answer

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Answer: d
Explanation:

7. What W/L ratio is required if μnCox = 200 μA/V2?


a) 1.23
b) 1.23
c) 1.43
d) 1.53
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation:

(Q.8-Q.9) For a 0.8-μm CMOS fabrication process: Vtn= 0.8 V, Vtp = −0.9 V, μnCox = 90 μA/V2,
μpCox = 30 μA/V2, Cox = 1.9 fF/μm2, VA (n-channel devices) = 8L (μm), and |VA| (p-channel
devices) = 12L (μm).

8. Find the small-signal model parameters (gm, ro and gmb) for an NMOS transistor having W/L =
20 μm/2 μm and operating at ID = 100 μA and |VSB| = 1V.
a) gm= 0.42mA/V, ro= 160 kΩ, gmb = 0.084 mA/V
b) gm= 0.21mA/V, ro= 160 kΩ, gmb= 0.042 mA/V

387
c) gm= 0.42mA/V, ro= 80 kΩ, gmb = 0.042 mA/V
d) gm= 0.24mA/V, ro= 80 kΩ, gmb = 0.084 mA/V
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation:

9. Find the small-signal model parameters (gm, ro and gmb) for a PMOS transistor having W/L =
20 μm/2 μm and operating at ID = 100 μA and |VSB| = 1V.
a) gm= 0.24mA/V, ro= 240 kΩ, gmb = 0.024 mA/V
b) gm= 0.24mA/V, ro= 120 kΩ, gmb = 0.048 mA/V
c) gm= 0.24mA/V, ro=240 kΩ, gmb = 0.048 mA/V
d) gm= 0.12mA/V, ro= 240 kΩ, gmb = 0.048 mA/V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation:

10. The overdrive voltage at which each device must be operating is


a) NMOS = 0.83V and PMOS = 0.48V
b) NMOS = 0.48V and PMOS = 0.83V

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c) NMOS = 0.24V and PMOS = 0.41V
d) NMOS = 0.41V and PMOS = 0.24V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation:
NMOS case

PMOS case

389
Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Basic MOSFET Amplifier Configurations”.

1. In which of the following configuration does a MOSFET works as an amplifier?


a) Common Source (CS)
b) Common Gate (CG)
c) Common drain (CD)
d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: There are three basic configurations for connecting the MOSFET as an amplifier.
Each of these configurations is obtained by connecting one of the three MOSFET terminals to
ground, thus creating a two-port network with the grounded terminal being common to the input
and output ports.

2. The MOSFET in the following circuit is in which configuration?

a) Common Source (CS)


b) Common Gate (CG)
c) Common Drain (CD)
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: It is the circuit for Common gate configuration.

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3. The MOSFET in the following circuit is in which configuration?

a) Common Source (CS)


b) Common Gate (CG)
c) Common Drain (CD)
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: It is the circuit for Common drain configuration.

4. The MOSFET in the following circuit is in which configuration?[/expand]

a) Common Source (CS)


b) Common Gate (CG)
c) Common Drain (CD)
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: It is the circuit for Common source configuration.

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(Q.5-Q.10) Reference circuit for Q.5-Q.10 The circuit below is the characterization for the
amplifier as a functional block.

5. If the value of Rin for the common source configuration is R1 and that for common source with
a source resistance configuration is R2 ideally. The ratio of R1/R2 will be
a) R1/R2 = 1
b) 0 < R1/R2 < 1
c) R1/R2 > 1
d) R1/R2 = 0
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Ideally both must have infinite resistance.

6. Which is true for the value of Avo for common source (Represented by A1) and common
source with a source resistance (represented by A2).
a) A1 = A2
b) A1 > 2
c) A1 < A2
d) |A1| < |A2|
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: A1 = -gmRD and A2 = -gmRD/1+gmRS
Reference circuit for Common source configuration

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Reference circuit for common source with source resistance RS

7. Which of the following is true for the voltage gain (AV) for the common source configuration
(represented by A1) and the common gate configuration (represented by A2)?
a) A1 = A2
b) |A1| = |A2| and A1 ≠ A2
c) |A1| > |A2|
d) |A1| < |A2|
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: A1 = -gm(RL||RD) and A1 = gm(RL||RD)
Reference figure for common source configuration

Reference figure for common gate configuration

8. The value of the voltage gain (Av) for the common source with source resistance (represented
by A1) and common gate configuration (represented by A2) are related to each other by
a) A1 > A2

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b) |A1| > |A2|
c) A1 < A2
d) A1 > A2 and |A1| > |A2|
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: A1 = – gm(RL||RD)/ 1 + gmRS and
A2 = gm(RL||RD)
Reference figure for common source with source resistance configuration

Reference figure for common gate configuration

9. In which of the following configuration is the input resistance (Ri) not equal to zero ideally?
a) Common source configuration
b) Common source configuration with source resistance
c) Common gate configuration
d) Source follower configuration
View Answer

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Answer: c
Explanation: Refer to the circuit for the common gate configuration

10. Which of the following has AVO independent of the circuit elements?
a) Common source configuration
b) Common gate configuration
c) Source follower configuration
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: AVO = 1 source follower.

“Biasing in MOS Amplifier Circuit”.

(Q.1-Q.2) A discrete MOSFET common source amplifier has Rin = 2 MΩ, gmm = 4mA/V, ro =
100 kΩ, RD = 10 kΩ, Cgs = 2pF and Cgd = 0.5pF. The amplifier is fed from a voltage source with
an internal resistance of 500 kΩ and Is connected to the a load of 10 kΩ.

1. The value of the overall mixed gain AM is


a) -15.2 V/V
b) -16.2 V/V
c) -17.2 V/V
d) -18.2 V/V
View Answer

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Answer: a
Explanation:

2. The upper 3-db frequency fH is


a) 11.1 kHz
b) 22.1 kHz
c) 33.1 kHz
d) 44.1 kHz
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation:

(Q.3-Q.4) The amplifier in the figure shown below is biased to operate at ID = 1mA and gm =
1mA/V.

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3. Find the midband gain.
a) 0.43 V/V
b) 1.43 V/V
c) 2.43 V/V
d) 3.43 V/V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation:

4. Find the value of CS that places FL at 10Hz


a) 6.57 µF
b) 12.57 µF
c) 18.57 µF
d) 24.57 µF
View Answer

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Answer: c
Explanation:

(Q.5-Q.6) )In the NMOS transistor of the circuit shown below is biased to have gm = 1mA/V and
r0 = 100 kΩ.

5. Find AM
a) 1.02 V/V
b) 2.04 V/V
c) 3.06 V/V
d) 4.08 V/V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation:

6. Find fH if Cgs = 1 pF and Cgd = 0.2 pF.


a) 875 kHz

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b) 875 kHz
c) 875 kHz
d) 875 kHz
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation:

(Q.7-Q.8) For a particular depletion mode NMOS device, Vt = -2V, kn W/L = 200 µA/V2 and λ =
0.02V-1. For VDS = 2V
7. What is the drain current that flows
a) 104 µA
b) 208 µA
c) 312µA
d) 416 µA
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation:

8. What is the value of the drain current if both L and W are doubled?
a) 408 µA
b) 412 µA
c) 416 µA
d) 420 µA
View Answer

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Answer: a
Explanation:

(Q.9-Q.10) A depletion type N channel MOSFEt with knW/L = 2 mA/V2 and Vt = 3V has its
source and gate grounded. For Vd = 0.1V and neglecting channel length modulating effect
9. Find drain current.
a) 1.18 mA
b) 0.89 mA
c) 0.59 mA
d) 0.3 mA
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation:

10. In which region is the triode operating?


a) Triode region
b) End of saturation region
c) Saturation region
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

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Answer: a
Explanation:

Questions and Answers focuses on “Discrete-Circuit MOS Amplifiers”.

1. Calculate the overall voltage gain Gv of a common source amplifier for which gm = 2mA/V,
RD = 10 kΩ, R0 = 10 kΩ and RG = 10 MΩ. The amplifier is fed from a signal source of Thevenin
resistance of 0.5MΩ and the amplifier is coupled with a load of 10 kΩ.
a) -11.2 V/V
b) -22.4 V/V
c) -33.6 V/V
d) -44.8 V/V
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation:

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(Q.2-Q.6) The MOSFEt circuit below has Vt = 1V, knW/L = 0.8 mA/V2 and VA = 40V

2. Find the value of RG so that iD = 0.1 mA, the largest possible value of RD is used while the
maximum signal swing at the drain is of 1V and the input resistance at the gate is 10 MΩ.
a) 1 MΩ
b) 10 MΩ
c) 0.1 MΩ
d) 0.01 MΩ
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation:

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3. Find the value of gm at the bias point
a) 0.1 mA/V
b) 0.2 mA/V
c) .0.3 mA/V
d) 0.4 mA/V
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation:

4. If terminal Z is grounded, X is connected to a signal source having a resistance of 1 MΩ and


terminal Y is connected to a load resistance of 40 kΩ, find the voltage gain from the signal
source to the load.
a) 3.25 v/V
b) 6.5 V/V
c) 9.75 V/V
d) 13 V/V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation:

5. If terminal Y is grounded find the voltage gain from X to Z with Z open-circuit.


a) 0.33 V/V
b) 0.66 V/V
c) 0.99 V/V

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d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: c
Explantion:

6. If terminal X is grounded and terminal Z is connected to a current source delivering a current


of 10 µA and having a resistance of 100 kΩ, find the voltage signal that can be measured at Y
neglecting the effect of V0 .
a) 0.34V
b) 0.68 V
c) 3.4 V
d) 6.8 V
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation:

(Q.7-Q.8) The NMOS transistor in source follower circuit shown has gm = 5mA/V and a large r0
.

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7. Find the output resistance.
a) 0.1 kΩ
b) 0.2 kΩ
c) 0.3 kΩ
d) 0.4 kΩ
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation:

8. Find the open-Circuit voltage gain.


a) 1 V/V
b) 2 V/V
c) 3 V/V
d) 4 V/V
View Answer

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Answer: a
Explanation (Q.7-Q.8):

9. The NMOS transistor in the common gate amplifier as shown in the circuit below has gm = 5
mA/V. Find the input resistance and the voltage gain.

a) Input resistance: 0.1 kΩ and Voltage gain: 3.05 V/V


b) Input resistance: 0.1 kΩ and Voltage gain: 3.05 V/V
c) Input resistance: 0.2 kΩ and Voltage gain: 3.05 V/V
d) Input resistance: 0.2 kΩ and Voltage gain: 7.1 V/V
View Answer

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Answer: d
Explanation:

10. If the output of the source follower in (I) is connected to the input of the common gate
amplifier of (II). Determine the overall voltage gain (V0 /Vi ).

a) 1.55 V/V
b) 3.55 V/V
c) 5.55 V/V
d) 7.55 V/V
View Answer

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Answer: b
Explanation:

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Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “The Body Effect”.

1. The _____________ of a MOSFET is affected by the voltage which is applied to the back
contact.
a) Threshold Voltage
b) Output Voltage
c) Both threshold and output voltage
d) Neither of the threshold nor the output voltage
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The voltage difference between the source and the bulk, VBS changes the width of
the depletion layer and therefore also the voltage across the oxide due to the change of the charge
in the depletion region. This results in a difference in threshold voltage which equals the
difference in charge in the depletion region divided by the oxide capacitance.

2. The variation of the threshold voltage with the applied bulk-to-source voltage is typically
observed by plotting the _________________ as a function of the source-to-drain voltage.
a) drain current
b) square root of the drain current
c) square of the drain current
d) natural logarithm of the drain current
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The change in threshold current is directly proportional to the square root of the
drain current. For further assistance check the mathematical expression for the same.

3. The SI units of the body effect parameter is


a) Volt
b) Volt X Volt
c) √Volt
d) It has no units
View Answer

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Answer: c
Explanation: Vt = Vt0 + k[√(Vsb + 2φf) – √2φf]. In this expression k is the body effect
parameter hence its units can be determined.

4. An NMOS transistor has Vt0 = 0.8 V, 2 φf = 0.7 V, and γ = 0.4 V1/2. Find Vt when VSB = 3
V.
a) 0.12 V
b) 1.23 V
c) 2.34 V
d) 3.45 V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Vt = Vt0 + k[√(Vsb + 2φf) – √2φf]. use this expression to obtain the desired result.

5. The threshold voltage is


a) Increases on increasing temperature
b) May increase or decrease on increasing temperature depending upon other factors
c) Temperature independent
d) Decreases on increasing temperature
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The threshold voltage depends only on the temperature and it decreases by roughly
2 mV for every degree Celsius increase in the temperature.

6. As the voltage on the drain is increased, a value is reached at which the pn junction between
the drain region and substrate suffers avalanche breakdown known as
a) Weak avalanche
b) Strong avalanche
c) Weak storm
d) Punch-through
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: As the voltage on the drain is increased, a value is reached at which the pn junction
between the drain region and substrate suffers avalanche breakdown. This breakdown usually
occurs at voltages of 20 V to 150 V and results in a somewhat rapid increase in current (known
as a weak avalanche).

7. A breakdown effect that occurs in modern devices at low voltages (of around 20 V) is
a) Weak avalanche

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b) Strong avalanche
c) Weak storm
d) Punch-through
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Punch-through occurs in devices with relatively short channels when the drain
voltage is increased to the point that the depletion region surrounding the drain region extends
through the channel to the source. The drain current then increases rapidly. Normally, punch-
through does not result in permanent damage to the device.

8. At ______________ the drain current is no longer related to the Vgs by square law
relationship.
a) When the temperature is high (around 700 Celsius)
b) When temperature is very low (around -50 Celsius)
c) Velocity saturation
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: At velocity saturation the current depends linearly on the Vgs.

9. In MOSFETs a breakdown may occur at around 30 V. This is due to


a) Velocity saturation
b) Breakdown of the gate diode
c) Sudden decrease in the depletion region
d) Fall of the threshold voltage due to impurities
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The breakdown of the oxide at the gate may occur when the voltage is around 30 V.
This may also permanently damage the device.

10. Which of the below issues may not be experienced when using MOSFETs?
a) Weak avalanche
b) Velocity saturation
c) Punch-through
d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

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Answer: d
Explanation: All of the mentioned are some of the common issues that one may face while
dealing with MOSFETs.

11. Questions & Answers on Bipolar Junction Triodes (BJTs)

The section contains questions on basics of BJT, device structures and physical operations,
circuits, current-voltage properties, amplifier design, signal operations and circuit configuration
and biasing.

BJTs Device Strucutres and Physical Operations Small Signal Operations and Model
BJTs Current-Voltage Characteristics Basic BJT Amplifier Configuration
BJT Circuits at DC Biasing in BJT Amplifier Circuits
BJT in Amplifier Design Spread Spectrum

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Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “BJTs Device Strucutres and Physical Operations”.

1. Which of the following is not a part of a BJT?


a) Base
b) Collector
c) Emitter
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: BJT consists of three semiconductor regions, base region, emitter region and
collector region.

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2. The number of pn junctions in a BJT is/are
a) 1
b) 2
c) 3
d) 4
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: There are two pn junctions, base-emitter junction and collector-emitter junction
respectively.

3. In which of the following modes can a BJT be used?


a) Cut-off mode
b) Active mode
c) Saturation mode
d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: These three are the defined regions in which a BJT operates.

4. If a BJT is to be used as an amplifier, then it must operate in___________


a) Cut-off mode
b) Active mode
c) Saturation mode
d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: A BJT operates as an amplifiers in active mode and as a switch in cut-off or
saturation mode.

5. If a BJT is to be used as a switch, it must operate in____________


a) Cut-off mode or active mode
b) Active Mode or saturation mode
c) Cut-off mode or saturation mode
d) Cut-off mode or saturation mode or active mode
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: A BJT operates as an amplifiers in active mode and as a switch in cut-off or
saturation mode.

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6. In cut off mode
a) The base-emitter junction is forward biased and emitter-collector junction is reversed biased
b) The base-emitter junction is forward biased and emitter-collector junction is forward biased
c) The base-emitter junction is reversed biased and emitter-collector junction is reversed biased
d) The base-emitter junction is reversed biased and emitter-collector junction is forward biased
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: In cut-off mode there is no current flowing through the BJT hence both junctions
must be reversed biased else if either of them is forward biased then the current will flow.

7. On which of the following does the scale current not depends upon?
a) Effective width of the base
b) Charge of an electron
c) Electron diffusivity
d) Volume of the base-emitter junction
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The saturation current does not depends upon the volume of the base-emitter
junction. Instead it depends upon the area of the cross section of the base-emitter junction in a
direction perpendicular to the flow of current.

8. On which of the following does the collector current not depends upon?
a) Saturation current
b) Thermal voltage
c) Voltage difference between the base and emitter
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Collector current depends linearly of the saturation current and exponentially to the
ratio of the voltage difference between the base and collector and thermal voltage.

9. The range for the transistor parameter also referred as common-emitter current gain has a
value of__________ for common devices.
a) 50-200
b) 400-600
c) 750-1000
d) > 1000
View Answer

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Answer: a
Explanation: Most commonly used transistors have a voltage gain of in the range of 50-200.
Only some specially designed transistors have a transistor parameter in the range of 1000.

10. The collector current Ic is related to the emitter current Ie by a factor k. If b is the transistor
parameter then the value of k in terms of b is
a) k = b/(b + 1)
b) k = (b + 1)/b
c) b = (k + 1)/k
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Ic = k Ie (given) and also Ie = (b + 1)/b Ic (standard result). Equating these two
results we get k = b/(b + 1).

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “BJTs Current-Voltage Characteristics”.

416
1. The curve between the collector current versus the potential difference between the base and
emitter is
a) A straight line inclined to the axes
b) A straight line parallel to the x-axis
c) An exponentially varying curve
d) A parabolic curve
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The natural logarithm of the collector current depends directly on the the potential
difference between the base and the emitter.

2. The curve between the collector current and the saturation is


a) A straight line inclined to the axes
b) A straight line parallel to the x-axis
c) A straight line parallel to the y-axis
d) An exponential curve
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The collector current depends directly on the saturation current.

3. The magnitude of the thermal voltage is given by


a) k/Tq
b) kT/q
c) q/Kt
d) Tk/q
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: kT/q is the correct mathematical expression for the thermal voltage.

4. The correct relation between the transistor parameters α and ß are related by
a) ß = 1 – α/α
b) ß = 1 + α/α
c) α = ß + 1/ß
d) α = ß/ß + 1
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Only expression α = ß/ß + 1 is the correct expression that relates α and ß.

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5. The correct expression relating the emitter current Ie to the collector current Ic is
a) Ie = α Ic
b) Ic = α Ic
c) Ie = ß Ic
d) Ic = ß Ic
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Ie = Ic/α or Ic = α Ie

6. The value of the thermal voltage at room temperature can be approximated as


a) 25 mV
b) 30 mV
c) 35 mV
d) 40 mV
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Thermal voltage is given by kT/q which at T = 25 degrees Celsius is approximately
25 mV.

7. The correct relation between the emitter current Ie and the base current Ib is given by
a) Ib = (1 + α) Ie
b) Ib = (α – 1) Ie
c) Ie = (1 – ß) Ib
d) Ie = (1 + ß) Ib
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The correct mathematical expression are Ie = (1 – ß) Ib and Ib = (1 – α) Ie
respectively.

8. The Early Effect is also called as


a) Base-width modulation effect
b) Base-width amplification effect
c) Both of the mentioned
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: At a given value of vBE, increasing vCE increases the reverse-bias voltage on the
collector–base junction, and thus increases the width of the depletion region of this junction. This

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in turn results in a decrease in the effective base width W. Also the saturation current is inversely
proportional to the width, the saturation current will increase and also makes collector current
increases proportionally. This is the Early Effect. For the reasons mentioned above, it is also
known as the base-width modulation effect.

9. For the BJT to operate in active mode Collector-Base junction must be


a) Heavily doped
b) Must reversed bias
c) Must be forward bias
d) Lightly doped
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The BJT operates in active mode when the collector-Base junction is reversed bias.
Also doping cannot prevent saturation of the transistor.

10. Collector current (Ic) reaches zero when


a) Vce = Vt ln (Isc/I)
b) Vt = Vce ln (Isc/I)
c) Vce = Vt ln (I/Isc)
d) Vce = Vt ln (Isc + I/I)
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Ic = Is exp (Vbe/Vt) – Isc exp(Vbc/Vt). In this expression put ic = 0 and simplify.

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Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “BJT Circuits at DC”.

1. Which of the following condition is true for cut-off mode?


a) The collector current Is zero
b) The collector current is proportional to the base current
c) The base current is non zero
d) All of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The base current as well as the collector current are zero in cut-off mode.

2. Which of the following is true for the cut-off region in an npn transistor?
a) Potential difference between the emitter and the base is smaller than 0.5V
b) Potential difference between the emitter and the base is smaller than 0.4V
c) The collector current increases with the increase in the base current
d) The collector current is always zero and the base current is always non zero
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Both collector and emitter current are zero in cut-off region.

3. Which of the following is true for a typical active region of an npn transistor?
a) The potential difference between the emitter and the collector is less than 0.5 V
b) The potential difference between the emitter and the collector is less than 0.4 V
c) The potential difference between the emitter and the collector is less than 0.3 V
d) The potential difference between the emitter and the collector is less than 0.2 V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Most commonly used transistors have Vce less than 0.4 V for the active region.

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4. Which of the following is true for the active region of an npn transistor?
a) The collector current is directly proportional to the base current
b) The potential difference between the emitter and the collector is less than 0.4 V
c) All of the mentioned
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The base current and the collector current are directly proportional to each other
and the potential difference between the collector and the base is always less than 0.4 V.

5. Which of the following is true for the saturation region of BJT transistor?
a) The collector current is inversely proportional to the base current
b) The collector current is proportional to the square root of the collector current
c) The natural logarithm of the collector current is directly proportional to the base current
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The collector current is directly proportional to the base current in the saturation
region of the BJT.

6. Which of the following is true for a npn transistor in the saturation region?
a) The potential difference between the collector and the base is approximately 0.2V
b) The potential difference between the collector and the base is approximately 0.3V
c) The potential difference between the collector and the base is approximately 0.4V
d) The potential difference between the collector and the base is approximately 0.5V
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The commonly used npn transistors have a potential difference of around 0.5V
between he collector and the base.

7. The potential difference between the base and the collector Vcb in a pnp transistor in
saturation region is ________
a) -0.2 V
b) -0.5V
c) 0.2 V
d) 0.5 V
View Answer

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Answer: b
Explanation: The value of Vcb is -0.5V for a pnp transistor and 0.5V for an npn transistor.

8. For a pnp transistor in the active region the value of Vce (potential difference between the
collector and the base) is
a) Less than 0.3V
b) Less than 3V
c) Greater than 0.3V
d) Greater than 3V
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: For a pnp transistor Vce is less than 0.3V, for an npn transistor it is greater than
0.3V.

9. Which of the following is true for a pnp transistor in active region?


a) CB junction is reversed bias and the EB junction is forward bias
b) CB junction is forward bias and the EB junction is forward bias
c) CB junction is forward bias and the EB junction is reverse bias
d) CB junction is reversed bias and the EB junction is reverse bias
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Whether the transistor in npn or pnp, for it be in active region the EB junction must
be reversed bias the CB junction must be forward bias.

10. Which of the following is true for a pnp transistor in saturation region?
a) CB junction is reversed bias and the EB junction is forward bias
b) CB junction is forward bias and the EB junction is forward bias
c) CB junction is forward bias and the EB junction is reverse bias
d) CB junction is reversed bias and the EB junction is reverse bias
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Whether the transistor in npn or pnp, for it be in saturation region the EB junction
must be forward bias the CB junction must be forward bias.

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Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “BJT in Amplifier Design”.

1. Find the maximum allowed output negative swing without the transistor entering saturation,
and
a) 1.27 mV
b) 1.47 mV
c) 1.67 mV
d) 1.87 mV
View Answer

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Answer: d
Explanation:

2. The corresponding maximum input signal permitted is


a) 1.64 mV
b) 1.74 mV
c) 1.84 mV
d) 1.94 mV
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: If we assume linear operation right to saturation we can use the gain Av to calculate
the maximum input signal. Thus for an output swing ∆ Vo = 0.8 we have
∆ Vi = ∆ Vo / Av = -0.7 / -360 = 1.94 mV.

(Q.3- Q.5) For the amplifier circuit in Fig. 6.33(a) with Vcc = +10 V, Rc = 1 kΩ and the DC
collector bias current equal to Ic,

3. Find the voltage gain.


a) 100 Ic
b) 200 Ic
C) 400 Ic

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d) 800 Ic
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation:

4. The maximum possible positive output signal swing as determined by the need to keep the
transistor in the active region.
a) 9.7 + Ic
b) 9.7 – Ic
c) 10.3 + Ic
d) 10.3 – Ic
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Assuming the output voltage Vo = 0.3v is the lowest Vce to stay out of saturation.
Vo = 0.3 = 10 – IcRc
= 10 – IcRc + ∆Vo
∆ Vo = -10 + 0.3 + Ic*1.

5. The maximum possible negative output signal swing as determined by the need to keep the
transistor in the active region.
a) 0.1 Ic
b) Ic
c) 10 Ic
d) 100 Ic
View Answer

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Answer: b
Explanation: Maximum output voltage before the Transistor is cutoff.
Vce + ∆Vo = Vcc
∆Vo = Vcc – Vce
= 10 – 10 + 10 Ic
= 10 Ic.

6. The transistor in the circuit below is biased at a dc collector current of 0.5 mA. What is the
voltage gain?

a) -1 V/V
b) -10 V/V
c) -100 V/V
d) -1000 V/V
View Answer

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Answer: c
Explanation:

7. For a BJt Vt is 5 V, Rc = 1000 ohm and bias current Ic is 12 mA. The value of the voltage
gain is __________
a) -1.2 V/V
b) -2.4 V/V
c) -3.6 V/V
d) -4.8 V/V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Voltage gain is (Ic X Rc ) / Vt.

(Q.8–Q.10) (Q.3- Q.5) For the BJT amplifier circuit with Vcc = +10 V, Rc = 1 kΩ and the DC
collector bias current equal to 5 mA,

8. The value of the voltage gain is _______________


a) -2 V/V
b) -4 V/V
c) -10 V/V
d) -20 V/V
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The voltage is 400 X Ic where Ic is 5 mA.

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9. The maximum possible positive output signal swing as determined by the need to keep the
transistor in the active region.
a) -1.7 V
b) -2.7 V
c) -3.7 V
d) -4.7 V
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: The maximum voltage swing is given by -10 + 0.3 + (Ic X Rc). Putting Ic as 5 mA,
we get -4.7 mV.

10. The maximum possible negative output signal swing as determined by the need to keep the
transistor in the active region.
a) 0.5 V
b) 1 V
c) 5 V
d) 10 V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: It is given by -10 + 10 + (Ic X Rc). Putting Ic as 5 mA we get 5V.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Small Signal Operations and Model”.

1. A transistor with ß = 120 is biased to operate at a dc collector current of 1.2 mA. Find the
value of gm.
a) 12mA/V
b) 24 mA/V
c) 36 mA/V
d) 48 mA/V
View Answer

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Answer: d
Explanation:

2. A transistor with ß = 120 is biased to operate at a dc collector current of 1.2 mA. Find the
value of R?p.
a) 625 ohm
b) 1250 ohm
c) 2500 ohm
d) 5000 ohm
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation:

3. A transistor with ß = 120 is biased to operate at a dc collector current of 1.2 mA. Find the
value of Re.
a) 2.5 ohm
b) 20.6 ohm
c) 25.2 ohm
d) 30.4 ohm
View Answer

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Answer: b
Explanation:

4. A transistor operating with nominal gm of 60 mA/V has a ß that ranges from 50 to 200. Also,
the bias circuit, being less than ideal, allows a 20% variation in Ic. What is the smallest value
found of the resistance looking into the base?
a) 347 ohm
b) 694 ohm
c) 1041 ohm
d) 1388 ohm
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation:

5. A transistor operating with nominal gm of 60 mA/V has a ß that ranges from 50 to 200. Also,
the bias circuit, being less than ideal, allows a 20% variation in Ic. What is the largest value

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found of the resistance looking into the base?
a) 1050 ohm
b) 21000 ohm
c) 3150 ohm
d) 4200 ohm
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation:

6. A designer wishes to create a BJT amplifier with a gm of 50 mA/V and a base input resistance
of 2000 O or more. What is the minimum ß he can tolerate for the transistor used?
a) 100
b) 150
c) 200
d) 250
View Answer

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Answer: a
Explanation:

7. A designer wishes to create a BJT amplifier with a gm of 50 mA/V and a base input resistance
of 2000 O or more. What emitter bis current should he choose?
a) 1.06 mA
b) 1.16 mA
c) 1.26 mA
d) 1.36 mA
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation:

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8. Which of the following is true?
a) Ib = ß Ic
b) Ib = ß + 1/ Ic
c) Ib = Ic/ß
d) Ib = Ic/ ß – 1
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The correct relationship between Ic and Ie is Ib = Ic/ß.

9. The SI units of transconductance is


a) Ampere/ volt
b) Volt/ ampere
c) Ohm
d) Siemens
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Transcoductance is given by Ic/Vt.

10. Which of the following represents the correct mathematical form of the term denoted by the
symbol Rp?
a) ß/gm
b) Vt/Ib
c) All of the mentioned
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Both of the expressions are identical.

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Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Basic BJT Amplifier Configuration”.

(Q1-Q.6) An amplifier is measured to have an internal resistance of 10 kΩ, voltage gain of


100V/V and output resistance of 100 Ω. Also, when a load resistance of 1 kΩ is connected
between the output resistance if found to decrease to 8 kΩ. If the amplifier is fed with the signal
source having an internal resistance of 2 kΩ, then
1. Find Gm.
a) 1 A/V
b) 10 A/V
c) 100 A/V
d) 1000 A/V
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Gm = (voltage gain in V/V) / (output resistance) or 100/100 A/V.

2. Find Av.
a) 9.09 V/V
b) 10 V/V
c) 90.9 V/V
d) 100 V/V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Av = Avo X Rl/Ro+Rl or 100 X 1000/1000+100 or 90.9 V/V.

3. Find Gvo.
a) 53.3 V/V
b) 63.3 V/V
c) 73.3 V/V

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d) 83.3 V/V
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Gvo = (Avo X input resistance) / (input resistance + signal resistance).

4. Find Gv.
a) 53.4 V/V
b) 72.7 V/V
c) 83.3 V/V
d) 90.9 V/V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Gv = (Gvo X Av) / Avo or 83.3 X 90.9 / 100 V/V.

5. Find R out.
a) 146 Ω
b) 292 Ω
c) 584 Ω
d) 1168 Ω
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Rout = Rl (1 – Gvo/Gv). Put in the respective values and solve.

6. Find Ai.
a) 182 A/A
b) 364 A/A
c) 546 A/A
d) 728 A/A
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: (Vo X R in) / (Vi X Rl) gives the required value of Ai.

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(Q.7-Q.10) The circuit shown below is a small sine wave signal with average zero and transistor
ß=

7. Find the value of R(E) to establish a dc emitter current of about 0.5 mA.
a) 28.57 kΩ
b) 57.04 kΩ
c) 114.08 kΩ
d) 228.16 kΩ
View Answer

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Answer: a
Explanation:

8. Find R(C) to establish a dc collector voltage of about +5V.


a) 5 kΩ
b) 10 kΩ
c) 15 kΩ
d) 20 kΩ
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: Vc = 15 – Rc.Ic
5 = 15 – Rc * 0.99 * 0.5m
Rc = 20.2kΩ
= 20kΩ.

9. For R (L) = 10 kΩ and transistor Ro = 200 kΩ, determine the overall voltage gain.
a) -21 V/V
b) -42 V/V
c) -86 V/V
d) -123 V/V
View Answer

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Answer: c
Explanation:

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Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Biasing in BJT Amplifier Circuits”.

(Q.1-Q.6) consider the figure shown below and answer the questions that proceed.

1. For Vcc = 15V, R1 = 100 kΩ, R(E) = 3.9 kΩ, R(C) = 6.8 kΩ and ß = 100, determine the dc
collector current for each transistor.
a) 0.29 mA
b) 0.48 mA
c) 0.96 mA
d) 1.92 mA
View Answer

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Answer: c
Explanation:

2. For Vcc = 15V, R1 = 100 kΩ, R(E) = 3.9 kΩ, R(C) = 6.8 kΩ and ß = 100, determine the dc
collector voltage for each transistor.
a) 4.25 V
b) 8.5 V
c) 12.75 V
d) 17 V
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation:

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3. Find R (in 1) for R (sig) = 5 kΩ.
a) 2.4 kΩ
b) 4.8 kΩ
c) 17.3 kΩ
d) 34.6 kΩ
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: It is the parallel combination of the 32 kΩ resistor and 2.6 kΩ resistor respectively.

4. Find Vb1/Vsig for R(sig) = 5 kΩ.


a) 0.08 V/V
b) 0.16 V/V
c) 0.24 V/V
d) 0.32 V/V
View Answer

Answer; d
Explanation:

5. Find R (in 2).


a) 2.4 kΩ
b) 4.8 kΩ
c) 17.3 kΩ
d) 34.6 kΩ
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: It is the parallel combination of the 32 kΩ resistor and 2.6 kΩ resistor respectively.

6. Find Vb2/Vb1.
a) -34 V/V
b) -51 V/V
c) – 68.1 V/V

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d) -100 V/V
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation:

7. For Rl = 2 kΩ find Vo/Vb2.


a) -59.3 V/V
b) -29.7 V/V
c) -89.1 V/V
d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation:

8. Find the overall voltage gain.


a) 323 V/V
b) 646 V/V
c) 969 V/V
d) 1292 V/V
View Answer

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Answer: d
Explanation:

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Spread Spectrum”.

(Q.1-Q.3) A pseudo-noise (PN) sequence is generated using a feedback shift register of length m
= 4. The chip rate is 107 chips per second.

1. The PN sequence length is


a) 10
b) 12
c) 15
d) 18
View Answer

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Answer: c
Explanation: The PN sequence length is N = 2m – 1 = 16 – 1 = 15.

2. The chip duration is


a) 1µs
b) 0.1 µs
c) 0.1 ms
d) 1 ms
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: Tc = 1/(107) or 0.1 µs.

3. The period of PN sequence is


a) 1.5 µs
b) 15 µs
c) 6.67 ns
d) 0.67 ns
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The period of the PN sequence is T = NTc = 15 x 0.1 = 1.5 s

4. A slow FH/MFSK system has the following parameters.


Number of bits per MFSK symbol = 4
Number of MFSK symbol per hop = 5
The processing gain of the system is
a) 13.4 dB
b) 37.8 dB
c) 6 dB
d) 26 dB
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: PG = Wc/Rs = 5 x 4 = 20 or 26 db.

5. A fast FH/MFSK system has the following parameters.


Number of bits per MFSK symbol = 4
Number of pops per MFSK symbol = 4
The processing gain of the system is
a) 0 dB
b) 7 dB

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c) 9 dB
d) 12 dB
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: PG = 4 x 4 = 16 or 12 db.

(Q.6-Q.7) A rate 1/2 convolution code with dfrec = 10 is used to encode a data sequence
occurring at a rate of 1 kbps. The modulation is binary PSK. The DS spread spectrum sequence
has a chip rate of 10 MHz.

6. The coding gain is


a) 7 dB
b) 12 dB
c) 14 dB
d) 24 dB
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: 0.5 x 10 = 5 or 7 db is the coding gain.

7. The processing gain is


a) 14 dB
b) 37 dB
c) 58 dB
d) 104 dB
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: PG = (107)/(2 x 1000) = 5000 or 37 db.

(Q.8-Q.9) An FH binary orthogonal FSK system employs an m 15 stage liner feedback shift
register that generates an ML sequence. Each state of the shift register selects one of L non over
lapping frequency bands in the hopping pattern. The bit rate is 100 bits/s. The demodulator
employ non coherent detection.[/expand]

8. If the hop rate is one per bit, the hopping bandwidth


for this channel is
a) 6.5534 MHz
b) 9.4369 MHz
c) 2.6943 MHz

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d) None of the mentioned
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The length of the shift-register sequence is L = 2m – 1215 = 32767 bits
For binary FSK modulation, the minimum frequency separation is 2/T, where 1/T is the symbol
(bit) rate. The hop rate is 100 hops/sec. Since the shift register has L 32767 states and each state
utilizes a bandwidth of 2/T = 200 Hz, then the total bandwidth for the FH signal is 6.5534 MHz.

9. Suppose the hop rate is increased to 2 hops/bit and the receiver uses square law combining the
signal over two hops. The hopping bandwidth for this channel is
a) 3.2767 MHz
b) 13.1068 MHz
c) 26.2136 MHz
d) 1.6384 MHz
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: If the hopping rate is 2 hops/bit and the bit rate is 100 bits/sec, then, the hop rate is
200 hops/sec. The minimum frequency separation for orthogonality 2/T 400 Hz. Since there are
N 32767 states of the shift register and for each state we select one of two frequencies separated
by 400 Hz, the hopping bandwidth is 13.1068 MHz.

10. In a fast FH spread spectrum system, the information is transmitted via FSK with non
coherent detection. Suppose there are N = 3 hops/bit with hard decision decoding of the signal in
each hop. The channel is AWGN with power spectral density 0.5No and an SNR 20 ~13 dB
(total SNR over the three hops). The probability of error for this system is
a) 0.013
b) 0.0013
c) 0.049
d) 0.0049
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: The total SNR for three hops is 20 ~ 13 dB. Therefore the SNR per hop is 20/3. The

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probability of a chip error with non-coherent detection is

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12. Questions on Small-Signal Low-Frequency AC models of Transistors

The section contains questions on ac models and analysis, transistor amplifier, biasing
parameters, two port devices and hybrid model, transistor hybrid model, h-parameters and its
measurement, cb transistor physical model, hybrid model in ce, cb and cc, ac and dc analysis
problems, transistor circuit analysis and millers theorem.

Conversion Formulas for the Parameters of the


The AC Analysis of a Small-Signal Low-Frequency
Three-Transistor Configurations
Common Emitter Transistor
Analysis of Transistor Amplifier Circuit using h-
Biasing Parameters
parameters
Problems on AC and DC Analysis
Comparision of Transistor Amplifier
Two-Port Devices and Hybrid Model
Linear Analysis of a Transistor Circuit
Transistor Hybrid Model
Physical Model of a CB Transistor
Determination of the h-parameters
Approximate Hybrid model and its use in CE,CB,CC
Measurement of h-parameters
Millers Theorem

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“The AC Analysis of a Small-Signal Low-Frequency Common Emitter Transistor”.

1. The feature of an approximate model of a transistor is


a) it helps in quicker analysis
b) it provides individual analysis for different configurations
c) it helps in dc analysis
d) ac analysis is not possible
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The small signal model helps in quicker ac analysis of a transistor. The
approximate model is applicable for all the configurations. The dc analysis is not obtained by
using a small signal model of transistor.

2 A transistor has hfe=100, hie=2kΩ, hoe=0.005mmhos, hre=0. Find the output impedance if the
lad resistance is 5kΩ.
a) 5kΩ
b) 4kΩ
c) 20kΩ
d) 15kΩ
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: RO=I/hoe=1/0.005m
=20kΩ.ROI= RO || RLI=20||5
=4kΩ.

3. A CE amplifier when bypassed with a capacitor at the emitter resistance has


a) increased input resistance and increased voltage gain
b) increased input resistance and decreased voltage gain
c) decreased input resistance and increased voltage gain
d) decreased input resistance and decreased voltage gain
View Answer
449
Answer: c
Explanation: When a transistor is bypassed with a capacitor, it short circuits in the small signal
analysis of transistor and the resistor too shorts. The input resistance becomes RI=hie. The value
of the input resistance is decreased and the gain now will be increasing.

4. A transistor has hie =2kΩ, hoe=25µmhos and hfe=60 with an unbypassed emitter resistor
Re=1kΩ. What will be the input resistance and output resistance?
a) 90kΩ and 50kΩ respectively
b) 33kΩ and 45kΩ respectively
c) 6kΩ and 40kΩ respectively
d) 63kΩ and 40kΩ respectively
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: As the emitter is unbypassed, the input resistance Ri=hie+(1+hfe)Re
=2+61=63kΩ. The output resistance RO=1/hoe=1/25MΩ=40kΩ.

5. A transistor has hie =1KΩ and hfe=60 with an bypassed emitter resistor Re=1kΩ. What will be
the input resistance and output resistance?
a) 90kΩ and 50kΩ respectively
b) 33kΩ and 45kΩ respectively
c) 6kΩ and 40kΩ respectively
d) 63kΩ and 40kΩ respectively
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: As the emitter is bypassed, the input resistance Ri=hie
=1kΩ. The output resistance RO=1/hoe but the value is not given.
So, hoe=0 and RO=1/0=∞.

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6. In the given circuit, find the equivalent resistance between A and B nodes.

a) 100kΩ
b) 50kΩ
c) 40kΩ
d) 60kΩ
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: RAB=RO||100Ω
= (RSI+hie/1+hfe)||100
=9+1/100||100=100||100=50Ω.

7. Which of the following acts as a buffer?


a) CC amplifier
b) CE amplifier
c) CB amplifier
d) cascaded amplifier
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The voltage gain of a common collector amplifier is unity. It is then used as a
buffer. The CC amplifier is also called as an emitter follower. Though there is no amplification
done, the output will be stabilised.

8. Which of the following is true?


a) CC amplifier has a large current gain
b) CE amplifier has a large current gain
c) CB amplifier has low voltage gain
d) CC amplifier has low current gain
View Answer

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Answer: b
Explanation: The CE amplifier has high current and voltage gains. The CC amplifier has unity
voltage gain which cannot be regarded as high. The common base amplifier has a unity current
gain and high voltage gain.

9. In an NPN silicon transistor, α=0.995, IE=10mA and leakage current ICBO=0.5µA. Determine
ICEO.
a) 10µA
b) 100µA
c) 90µA
d) 500µA
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: IC=α IE +ICBO =0.995*10mA+0.5µA=9.9505mA.
IB=IE-IC=10-9.9505=0.0495mA. β=α/(1-α)=0.995/(1-0.995)=199
ICEO=9.9505-199*0.0495=0.1mA==100µA.

10. In CB configuration, the value of α=0.98A. A voltage drop of 4.9V is obtained across the
resistor of 5KΩ when connected in collector circuit. Find the base current.
a) 0.01mA
b) 0.07mA
c) 0.02mA
d) 0.05mA
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: Here, IC=4.9/5K=0.98mA
α = IC/IE .So,
IE=IC/α=0.98/0.98=1mA.
IB=IE-IC=1-0.98=0.02mA.

Questions & Answers (MCQs) focuses on “Biasing Parameters”.

1. The current gain of BJT is_________


a) gmro
b) gm/ro
c) gmri

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d) gm/ri
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: We know, current gain AV=hfe. In π model, hfe is referred to β.
We know, ri= β/gm.
From this, β=rigm.

2. For the amplifier circuit of fig. The transistor has β of 800. The mid band voltage gain VO/VI
of the circuit will be_________

a) 0
b) <1
c) =1
d) 800
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The circuit is PNP transistor, collector coupled amplifier. The voltage gain is unity
for a CC amplifier. Hence on observation, the CC amplifier gives a unity gain.

3. In a bipolar transistor at room temperature, the emitter current is doubled the voltage across its
base emitter junction_________
a) doubles
b) halves
c) increase by about 20mV
d) decreases by about 20mV
View Answer

453
Answer: c
Explanation: The change in voltage with temperature can be found by, V(T) = 2.3m(∆T)VO . In a
bipolar transistor at room temperature if the emitter current is doubled the voltage across its base
emitter junction thereby doubles.

4. A common emitter transistor amplifier has a collector current of 10mA, when its base current
is 25µA at the room, temperature. What is input resistance?
a) 3kΩ
b) 5kΩ
c) 1kΩ
d) 7kΩ
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: We know, β/gm=ri
= (IC/IB)/(IC/VT)=VT/IB=25m/25µ=1k.

5. For an NPN transistor connected as shown in below, VBE=0.7V. Give that reverse saturation
current of junction at room temperature is 10-13A, the emitter current is_________

a) 30mA
b) 39mA
c) 29mA
d) 49mA
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: When the collector and base are shorted, the transistor behaves as a normal diode.
So, the diode equations imply. IE=IO(eV/V0-1). We get, IE=49mA.

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6. The voltage gain of given circuit below is_________

a) 100
b) 20
c) 10
d) 30
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The gain for the given circuit can be found by, AV=RF/RS
=100K/10K=10.

7. A small signal source V(t)=Acos20t+Bsin10000t, is applied to a transistor amplifier as shown.


The transistor has β=150 and hie=3KΩ. What will be the VO?

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a) 1500(Acos20t+Bsin10000t)
b) -150(Acos20t+Bsin10000t)
c) -1500Bsin10000t
d) -150Bsin10000t
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: AV=-hfe RLI/hie=3*150/3=-150. So, VO=-150V(t)
But cos20t has low frequency so capacitors are open circuited. Only, the sine component is
allowed.
So, Vo =-150Bsin10000t.

8. Which of the following statements are correct for basic transistor configurations?
a) CB Amplifiers has low input impedance and low current gain
b) CC Amplifiers has low input impedance and high current gain
c) CE Amplifiers has very poor voltage gain but very high input impedance
d) The current gain of CB Amplifier is higher than the current gain of CC Amplifiers
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The CE amplifier has moderate input and output impedances. The CC amplifier has
unity voltage gain. The common ba se amplifier has a unity current gain and high voltage gain.

9. The collector current is 2.945A and α=0.98. The leakage current is 2µA. What is the emitter
current and base current?
a) 3mA and 55µA

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b) 2.945mA and 55µA
c) 3.64mA and 33µA
d) 5.89mA and 65µA
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: (IC – ICBO)/α=IE
= (2.945-0.002)/0.98=3mA.
IE=IC+IB . So, IB=3-2.495=0.055mA=55µA.

10. The change in collector emitter voltage from 6V to 9V causes increase in collector current
from 6mA to 6.3mA. Determine the dynamic output resistance.
a) 20kΩ
b) 10kΩ
c) 50kΩ
d) 60kΩ
View Answer

Answer: b
Explanation: ro=∆VCE/∆IC
=3/0.3m=10kΩ.

11. A transistor is connected in CB configuration. The emitter voltage is changed by 200mV, the
emitter by 5mA. During this transition the collector base voltage is kept constant. What is the
input dynamic resistance?
a) 30Ω
b) 60Ω
c) 40Ω
d) 50Ω
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: The ratio of change in emitter base voltage (∆VEB) to resulting change in emitter
current (∆IE) at constant collector base voltage (VCB) is defined as input resistance. This is
denoted by ri.
We know, ∆VEB/∆IE=ri
=200/5=40Ω.

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Questions and Answers focuses on “Problems on AC and DC Analysis”.

1. In the circuit, transistor has β =60, VBE=0.7V. Find the collector to emitter voltage drop hoe.

458
a) 5V
b) 3V
c) 8V
d) 6V
View Answer

Answer: d
Explanation: We know, IC=(VCC-VBE)/RB
By putting the values, we have IC=5.9mA. IE=IC/α. So, IE=5.99mA.
hoe= VCC-RC(IC+IB). We have hoe=6V.

2. For the circuit shown, find the quiescent point.

a) (6V, 1mA)
b) (4V, 10mA)
c) (10V, 3mA)
d) (3mA, 10V)
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: We know, hoe=12V
(IC)SAT =VCC/RL=12/6K=2mA. IB=10V/0.5M=20µA. IC= βIB=1mA. I
hoe=VCC-ICRL=12-1*6=6V. So, quiescent point is (6V, 1mA).

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3. For the circuit shown, find the quiescent point.

a) (10V, 4mA)
b) (4V, 10mA)
c) (10V, 3mA)
d) (3mA, 10V)
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: We know, IE=VEE/RE=10/5kΩ=2mA
IC=α IE =IE =2mA
VCB=VCC-ICRL=20-10=10V. So, quiescent point is (10V, 2mA).

4. In the circuit shown below, β =100 and VBE=0.7V. The Zener diode has a breakdown voltage
of 6V. Find the operating point.

a) (6.7V, 5.3mA)
b) (5.7V, 5.3mA)
c) (6.7V, 5mA)
d) (6V, 5mA)
View Answer

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Answer; a
Explanation: We know, by KVL -12+(IC+IB)1K+6+VBE=0
We have IE=5.3. IC= αIE=5.24mA. From another loop, -12+IEIK+VBE=0
We have, hoe=12-5.3m*1000=6.7V. Hence the Q point is (6.7V, 5.3mA).

5. 10. When the β value is large for a given transistor, the IC and hoe values are given
by_________
a) (VCC-VBE)/RB, VCC-RCIC
b) (VCC+VBE)/RB, VCC-RC(IC+IB)
c) (VCC+VBE)/RB, VCC+RC(IC+IB)
d) (VCC+VBE)/RB,VCC+RC(IC-IB)
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: The base current IB is zero when β value is large. So, the hoe changes to VCC-RCIC.
The collector current IC is changed to (VCC-VBE)/RB from β(VCC-VBE)/(1+ β)RE+ RB.

6. For the circuit shown, find the quiescent point.

a) (10V, 4mA)
b) (4V, 10mA)
c) (10V, 3mA)
d) (3mA, 10V)
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: We know, IE=VEE/RE=30/10kΩ=3mA
IC=α IE =IE =3mA
VCB=VCC-ICRL=25-15=10V. So, quiescent point is (10V, 3mA).

7. The PNP transistor when used for switching the power, then it is called_________
a) sourcing current
b) sinking current

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c) forward sourcing
d) reverse sinking
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: Sometimes DC current gain of a bipolar transistor is too low to directly switch the
load current or voltage, so multiple switching transistors is used. The load is connected to ground
and the transistor switches the power to it.

8. In which of the regions, the small capacitors are open circuited?


a) high frequency
b) medium frequency
c) low frequency
d) the region does not affect he capacitors
View Answer

Answer: c
Explanation: In low frequency region, the small capacitors are open circuited and large
capacitors are in active state. In high frequency region, the large capacitors are short circuited
and small capacitors are active.

9. In mid frequency region, the large capacitors are short and small capacitors are open circuited.
What happens to the RC coupled circuit?
a) the circuit is now frequency blind
b) it is DC isolated
c) the circuit turns reactive
d) the circuit is AC dependent
View Answer

Answer: a
Explanation: In the mid frequency region, the whole circuit is resistive because the large
capacitors are short and small capacitors are open circuited. The gain is constant in this region.
So, the circuit is frequency blind as the gain is constant in this region.

10. In low frequency region, the gain_________


a) increases
b) decreases
c) remains same
d) depends on value of capacitors
View Answer

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Answer: b
Explanation: At very low frequency, the gain decreases due to the coupling capacitor. When the
frequency is decreased, the reactance of the circuit increases and the drop across the coupling
capacitor increases. The gain is therefore decreased as the output decreased.

13. Questions & Answers on Field-Effect Transistors

The section contains questions and answers on junction field effect transistor, pinch off voltage,
insulated gate, fet small signal model, common source and drain amplifier, fet biasing, fet
amplifier and unijunction transistors.

The Junction Field-Effect Transistor The Common-Source Amplifier


The Pinch off Voltage Vp The Common-Drain Amplifier
The JFET Volt-Ampere Characteristics Biasing the FET
The FET Small-Signal Model A Generalized FET Amplifier
The Insulated-Gate FET(MOSFET) The Unijunction Transistors

14. Questions on Large Signal Amplifiers

The section contains questions on class a large signal amplifiers, second and higher order
harmonic distortion.

Class A Large Signal Amplifiers


Higher-Order Harmonic Distortion
Second Harmonic Distortion

15. Questions & Answers on Low Frequency Transistor Amplifier Circuit

The section contains questions and answers on cascading amplifiers, decibel, cc and cb
configurations, ce amplifier, emitter follower, high input resistance transistor circuit, cascode
transistor and amplifiers.

Cascading Transistor Amplifiers


N-Stage Cascading Amplifiers CE Amplifier with an Emitter Resistance
The Decibel The Emitter Follower
Simplified CE Hybrid Model High Input Resistance Transistor Circuit
Simplified Calculations for the CC The Cascode Transistor Configuration
Configuration Difference Amplifiers
Simplified Calculations for the CB

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Configuration

16. Questions on High Frequency Transistor

The section contains questions on high frequency t model, hybrid pi models, alpha cutoff
frequency, ce short circuit current frequency response, resistive load and transistor amplifier
response.

The High Frequency T Model


The CB Short Circuit Current Frequency The Alpha Cutoff Frequency
Response The CE Short Circuit Current Frequency
The Hybrid PI CE Transistor Model Response
Hybrid PI Conductances In Low Frequency H Current Gain With Resistive Load
Parameters Transistor Amplifier Response, Taking Source
The CE Short Circuit Gain Obtained With The Resistance Into Account
Hybrid PI Model

17. Questions & Answers on Frequency Response

The section contains questions on low and high frequency responses on cs and ce amplifiers,
high frequency models of bjt and mosfet, millers theorem, high frequency response of source and
emitter followers, differential amplifiers, mos and bipolar cascode amplifiers, cd-cs, cc-ce, cd-ce,
cc-cb and cd-cg configurations, pole splitting, frequency and miller compensation.

High-Frequency Response of the MOS Cascode


Amplifier
High-Frequency Response of the Bipolar
Low-Frequency Response of the CS Amplifiers Cascode Amplifier
Low-Frequency Response of the CE Amplifiers High Frequency Response of the Source
High-Frequency Model of the BJT Followers
High-Frequency Model of the MOSFET High-Frequency Response of the Emitter
High-Frequency Response of the CS Amplifiers Followers
High-Frequency Response of the CE Amplifiers High Frequency Response of the Differential
The High Frequency Gain Function Amplifiers
Determining the 3-dB Frequency fH 9 The CD-CS, CC-CE and CD-CE
Approximate Determination of fH Configurations
Miller’s Theorm The CC-CB and CD-CG Configurations
High-Frequency Response of the CG High Frequency Response of Multistage
Amplfiers
Frequency Compensation
Miller Compensation and Pole Splitting

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18. Questions on Differential and Multistage Amplifiers

The section contains questions and answers on input bias, voltage, current, multistage and
differential amplifiers, feedback structure and negative feedback properties, transconductance
and transresistance amplifiers, a, b and ab output stages, feedback effects, power bjts, heat sinks
and variations in ab classification.

Input Bias and Offset Currents of the Bipolar


Differential Amplifier Effect of Feedback on the Amplifier Poles (The
Differential Amplifier with Active Load Nyquist Plot)
Multistage Amplifier Effect of Feedback on the Amplifier Poles
The General Feedback Structure Stability Study using Bode Plots
Properties of Negative Feedback Classification of Output Stages
Voltage Amplifiers Class A output Stage
Current Amplifiers Class B Output Stage
Tranconductance Amplifiers Calss AB Output Stage
Transresistance Amplifiers Biasing the Class AB Circuit
Feedback Voltage Amplifier (Series-Shunt) Power BJTs
Determining the Loop Gain Transistor case and Heat Sinks
The Transfer Function of the Feedback Variations on Class AB Configuration
Amplifier

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Best Reference Books – Electronic Devices and Circuits
We have compiled a list of Best Reference Books on Electronic Devices and Circuits Subject. These books
are used by students of top universities, institutes and colleges.

Here is the full list of best reference books on Electronic Devices and Circuits.

1. “Semiconductor Physics and Devices” by D A Neamen

2. “Microelectronic Devices” by E S Yang

3. “Solid State Electronic Devices” by B G Streetman.

4. “Microelectronics” by J Millman and A Grabel

5. “Microelectronic Circuits” by A S Sedra and K C Smith

6. “Microelectronics: An Integrated Approach” by R T Howe and C G Sodini

7 . “Electronic Devices and Circuits” by Theodore F Bogart

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8. “Introductory Electronic Devices and Circuits : Conventional Flow Version” by Paynter

9. “Electronics Devices And Circuits” by J B Gupta

10. “Basic Electronic Devices and Circuits” by Mahesh B Patil

Manish Bhojasia, a technology veteran with 20+ years @ Cisco & Wipro, is Founder and CTO at
Sanfoundry. He is Linux Kernel Developer and SAN Architect and is passionate about competency
developments in these areas. He lives in Bangalore and delivers focused training sessions to IT
professionals in Linux Kernel, Linux Debugging, Linux Device Drivers, Linux Networking, Linux Storage &
Cluster Administration, Advanced C Programming, SAN Storage Technologies, SCSI Internals and Storage
Protocols such as iSCSI & Fiber Channel. Stay connected with him below:

Set by ltm3542

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