In a purely resistive circuit the current:

Correct answer: D. Is in phase with the voltage

  • A. Leads the voltage by one-half of a cycle
  • B. Leads the voltage by one-fourth of a cycle
  • C. Lags the voltage by one-half of a cycle
  • D. Is in phase with the voltage

Explanation

In a purely resistive circuit, the current and voltage are in phase with each other. This means both reach their maximum and minimum values simultaneously, with no phase shift between them.The reason is that resistance, unlike reactance, does not cause any delay or advancement in the phase of the current relative to the voltage. Therefore, Options A, B, and C are incorrect as they suggest a phase difference, which does not occur in purely resistive circuits. Option D is correct as it accurately describes the in-phase relationship, where the electrical energy is entirely converted into heat without any storage or delay.

This question appeared on the ETEA MDCAT 2016 paper, which you can sit online with every answer explained.

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About AC Through Resistor, Capacitor and Inductor

Alternating current through a resistor, capacitor and inductor involves phase relationships between voltage and current, reactance, impedance and energy transfer. A resistor keeps voltage and current in phase, while a capacitor and inductor produce opposite phase shifts, a distinction used in circuit diagrams and numerical calculations.

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