COMPLETE STUDY GUIDE

Departmental Examination for Promotion of Senior Technicians to

Engineering Assistants

PART I — BASIC PRINCIPLES OF ELECTRICITY AND ELECTRONICS &

COMMUNICATION
MODULE 1: BASIC ELECTRICITY

Covers Syllabus Sections 1(a)–1(e): Elementary Electrical Principles, AC Circuits & Resonance, Electrical
Wiring, R-L-C Components, and Transformers

Theory • MCQ Practice (90 Questions with Explanations) • Revision Notes • 40-Question Unit Test
How to Use This Guide
This module builds Basic Electricity from first principles up to exam-ready depth. Read each theory section once for
understanding, then use the tables and mnemonics for quick revision, then attempt the MCQs. Wrong answers should be
revisited in the theory section immediately — do not just memorise the answer key.
Topics covered in this module (as per syllabus):
● 1(a) Elementary electrical principles — current, voltage, power, energy, Ohm's Law, Kirchhoff's Laws, DC/AC,
peak/average/RMS values
● 1(b) AC circuits — phase relationships in R/L/C, series & parallel resonance, Q-factor, bandwidth, active/reactive
power, power factor, poly-phase (3-phase) circuits, Star/Delta
● 1(c) Electrical wiring — symbols, wire gauge, conductors/insulators, switches, fuses, earthing, circuit breakers
(ACB/OCB), conduit wiring, CTs/PTs
● 1(d) R, L, C components — types, colour codes, impedance, cable ratings
● 1(e) Transformers — construction, turns ratio, losses, efficiency, cooling, regulation, parallel operation
1(a) Elementary Electrical Principles
Basic Electrical Quantities
Electric current (I) is the rate of flow of electric charge. It is measured in Amperes (A). One ampere equals one coulomb of
charge flowing per second: I = Q/t.
Voltage (V), also called potential difference or EMF, is the energy required to move a unit charge between two points. It is
measured in Volts (V): V = W/Q.
Power (P) is the rate of doing electrical work, measured in Watts (W): P = VI = I²R = V²/R.
Energy (W) is power consumed over time, measured in Joules, or commercially in kilowatt-hours (kWh, also called a 'Unit'
of electricity): W = P × t.

SI Units — Quick Reference Table

Quantity Symbol SI Unit Unit Symbol
Current I Ampere A
Voltage/EMF V, E Volt V
Resistance R Ohm Ω
Power P Watt W
Energy W Joule (Wh J / Wh
commercially)
Charge Q Coulomb C
Capacitance C Farad F
Inductance L Henry H
Frequency f Hertz Hz
Conductance G Siemens S

Ohm's Law
Ohm's Law states that the current through a conductor between two points is directly proportional to the voltage across it,
provided temperature and other physical conditions remain constant: V = IR.
Materials that obey Ohm's Law (proportional V-I graph through origin) are called ohmic conductors (e.g., pure metals at
constant temperature). Diodes, transistors, and thermistors are non-ohmic — their V-I relationship is non-linear.
Memory Trick: 'VIR' triangle — cover the quantity you want to find; the remaining two show the operation (V on top, I and
R at the bottom: V = I×R, I = V/R, R = V/I).

Kirchhoff's Laws
Kirchhoff's Current Law (KCL)
KCL (Point Law / Junction Rule): The algebraic sum of currents meeting at a junction is zero, i.e., total current entering a
node equals total current leaving it. It is based on the law of conservation of charge.

Kirchhoff's Voltage Law (KVL)

KVL (Mesh Law / Loop Rule): The algebraic sum of all voltages (EMFs and IR drops) around any closed loop in a circuit is
zero. It is based on the law of conservation of energy.
Sign convention: rise in potential is taken positive while traversing a loop, drop in potential is taken negative (or vice-versa,
but must be consistent throughout one loop).
Memory Trick: KCL → 'Current at a point Cannot pile up' (charge conservation). KVL → 'Voltage around a loop Vanishes'
(energy conservation).
DC and AC
Feature Direct Current (DC) Alternating Current (AC)
Direction Unidirectional, constant Periodically reverses direction
Magnitude Constant with time Varies sinusoidally (usually) with
time
Source examples Battery, DC generator, solar cell AC generator/alternator, mains
supply
Transmission High loss over long distance (until Easily transformed — efficient
HVDC) long-distance transmission
Frequency 0 Hz 50 Hz (India) / 60 Hz (USA)
Measuring instrument PMMC (Permanent Magnet MI (Moving Iron) / rectifier-type
Moving Coil) meters

Peak, Average, Instantaneous and RMS Values

Instantaneous value is the value of a varying quantity at any specific instant of time: i = Im sin(ωt).
Peak value (Im, Vm) is the maximum value reached in one cycle (also called amplitude or crest value).
Average value over one full sinusoidal cycle is zero (positive and negative half-cancel); hence average value is defined over
one half-cycle only. For a sine wave, Average value = 0.637 × Peak value (i.e., 2Im/π).
RMS (Root Mean Square) value is the value of DC that would produce the same heating effect as the AC quantity over a
resistor — this is why it is also called the 'effective value'. For a pure sine wave, RMS = 0.707 × Peak value (Im/√2).

Important Waveform Factors

Factor Formula Value for Pure Sine Wave
Form Factor RMS value / Average value 1.11
Peak (Crest) Factor Peak value / RMS value 1.414 (√2)
Memory Trick: 'RMS is Real Meaningful power'— RMS is what AC voltmeters/ammeters actually read, and what nameplate
ratings (230V, 415V) refer to, unless stated otherwise. Peak value of 230V RMS mains ≈ 325V (230 × 1.414).
1(b) AC Circuits, Resonance and Poly-Phase Systems
Phase Relationship in Pure R, L, C Circuits
Circuit Phase Relationship Power Factor Reactance
Pure Resistive (R) V and I in phase 1 (unity) None
Pure Inductive (L) I lags V by 90° 0 (lagging) XL = 2πfL
Pure Capacitive (C) I leads V by 90° 0 (leading) XC = 1/2πfC
Memory Trick: 'ELI the ICE man' — In an inductor (L), EMF (E) leads Current (I) [ELI]; In a Capacitor (C), Current (I)
leads EMF (E) [ICE].

Series and Parallel Resonance

Resonance in an R-L-C circuit occurs when inductive reactance equals capacitive reactance (XL = XC), so the net reactance
is zero and the circuit behaves as purely resistive.
Resonant frequency: fr = 1 / (2π√(LC)).

Series Resonance
● Impedance is minimum (Z = R) and current is maximum at resonance — hence series resonance is called an
'acceptor circuit'.
● Current and voltage are in phase at resonance; net reactance is zero.
● Voltage across L and C can be many times the supply voltage (voltage magnification) — this ratio equals Q-factor.

Parallel Resonance
● Impedance is maximum and line current is minimum at resonance — hence called a 'rejector circuit' (used in tuning
circuits to reject unwanted frequencies).
● The circulating current between L and C branches can be much larger than the line current (current magnification).

Q-Factor and Bandwidth

Quality factor (Q) measures the sharpness of resonance / energy storage efficiency: Q = (2π × Maximum energy stored) /
(Energy dissipated per cycle) = XL/R at resonance = fr/BW.
Bandwidth (BW) is the range of frequencies over which the circuit response is at least 70.7% (1/√2) of its maximum value
(the 'half-power points'): BW = fr / Q.
Higher Q → sharper resonance curve → narrower bandwidth → better selectivity (used in tuning radio receivers). Damping
is the opposite effect — higher resistance increases damping, lowers Q, broadens bandwidth.

Active Power, Reactive Power and Power Factor

Power Type Formula Unit Physical Meaning
Apparent Power (S) S = VI VA (volt-ampere) Total power supplied by
source
Active/Real Power (P) P = VI cosφ W (watt) Power actually
consumed/converted to
useful work
Reactive Power (Q) Q = VI sinφ VAR Power oscillating
between source and
reactive components (L,
C), does no useful work
Power factor (cosφ) is the ratio of active power to apparent power: cosφ = P/S = R/Z. It indicates how effectively current is
converted into useful work. Power triangle: S² = P² + Q².
Low power factor causes higher current for the same power, increasing I²R losses and cable size requirements. Power factor
correction is done by adding capacitor banks in parallel to cancel the lagging reactive component drawn by inductive loads
(motors, transformers).

Poly-Phase (3-Phase) Circuits

A 3-phase supply consists of three sinusoidal voltages of the same magnitude and frequency, mutually displaced by 120°
electrical. Standard phase sequence in India is R-Y-B (Red-Yellow-Blue).

Star (Y) and Delta (Δ) Connections

Parameter Star (Y) Connection Delta (Δ) Connection
Line voltage (VL) vs Phase VL = √3 × Vph VL = Vph
voltage (Vph)
Line current (IL) vs Phase current IL = Iph IL = √3 × Iph
(Iph)
Neutral point Available (4-wire system Not available
possible)
Typical use Power transmission, alternator Motor windings, transformer
windings windings for balanced 3-phase
loads
Power in a balanced 3-phase circuit (Star or Delta): P = √3 × VL × IL × cosφ. Power in a single-phase circuit: P = VI cosφ.
Balancing of 3-phase loads (equal loading on all three phases) is important to avoid neutral current, uneven voltage drops,
and overheating of the unbalanced phase/neutral conductor.
Memory Trick: 'Star Splits Voltage, Delta Divides Current' — in Star, line voltage is split up (√3×) relative to phase; in
Delta, line current is the one that's √3× the phase current.
1(c) Electrical Wiring, Symbols, Earthing and Protection
Conductors, Cables and Insulators
Conductors allow free flow of electrons (e.g., copper, aluminium). Insulators resist current flow (e.g., PVC, rubber, mica,
porcelain) and are used to prevent leakage/shock.
Standard Wire Gauge (SWG) is a system specifying wire diameter — a higher SWG number means a thinner wire (inverse
relationship). Cable rating depends on cross-sectional area, current-carrying capacity, and insulation type.

Switches, Fuses and Circuit Breakers

A fuse is a protective device with a low melting point element that melts (blows) when current exceeds a safe value, breaking
the circuit and protecting equipment from overcurrent/short-circuit damage. It operates on the heating effect of current (I²R).

ACB vs OCB
Feature ACB (Air Circuit Breaker) OCB (Oil Circuit Breaker)
Arc quenching medium Compressed air / ambient air Insulating (transformer) oil
Common use Low & medium voltage indoor Older HV switchgear (largely
switchgear replaced by SF6/vacuum breakers)
Fire hazard Low Higher (oil is flammable)
Maintenance Comparatively simpler Requires oil testing/replacement
A circuit breaker differs from a fuse in that it can be reset/reclosed after tripping, whereas a fuse element must be replaced
after operating.

Current Transformers (CT) and Potential Transformers (PT)

A CT steps down high line current to a small standard secondary current (commonly 1A or 5A) for metering/protection, with
primary connected in series with the line.
A PT (voltage transformer) steps down high voltage to a standard low secondary voltage (commonly 110V) for
metering/protection, with primary connected in parallel (across the line).
Important precaution: The secondary of a CT must NEVER be left open-circuited while the primary carries current — an
open CT secondary develops extremely high, dangerous voltage and can cause insulation breakdown/injury. The secondary
of a PT, in contrast, must never be short-circuited (would cause very high current).
Memory Trick: 'CT — never disCTonnect (open) the secondary'; 'PT — never Pinch it shorT (short-circuit) the secondary'.

Earthing (Grounding)
Earthing connects the non-current-carrying metal parts of equipment (or the neutral point of a system) to the general mass of
earth, to provide a low-resistance path for fault current and protect against electric shock.

Types of Earthing
Type Description
Plate Earthing A copper/GI plate buried vertically in the ground
with charcoal/salt bedding to reduce resistance
Pipe Earthing A GI pipe driven vertically into the ground,
commonly used, economical and widely adopted
Rod Earthing Similar to pipe earthing but uses a solid rod; suitable
where space is limited
Strip/Wire Earthing Strip or wire buried in a horizontal trench, used in
rocky soil where digging deep pits is difficult
Earth resistance is measured using an Earth Tester (megger-type instrument) via the fall-of-potential method, using auxiliary
current and potential electrodes. Lower earth resistance value indicates a better/more effective earth connection.
Lightning Protection and Austin Transformer
Lightning protection systems (lightning arresters/rods) provide a low-impedance path to safely conduct a lightning strike's
high-current surge to earth, protecting structures and equipment (like transmission masts) from damage.
An Austin transformer is a special isolating transformer used to feed mast-lighting/obstruction lights mounted on a tall (often
insulated-against-ground) radio transmitting mast/tower, allowing power transfer to the lamp circuit while electrically
isolating it from the high-RF-potential mast structure.
1(d) Resistance, Inductance and Capacitance
Resistance, Reactance and Impedance
Term Symbol Definition Behaviour with
Frequency
Resistance R Opposition to current Independent of
due to collisions of frequency
electrons (dissipates
energy as heat)
Reactance X Opposition due to L or C XL increases with f; XC
(stores/returns energy, decreases with f
no dissipation)
Impedance Z Total opposition = vector Depends on R, L, C and
combination of R and X: frequency
Z = √(R² + X²)

Types of Resistors
● Fixed resistors: carbon composition, carbon film, wire-wound, metal film — fixed resistance value.
● Variable resistors: potentiometers (3-terminal, for voltage division) and rheostats (2-terminal, for current control).
● Non-inductive resistors: wound using a bifilar (doubled-back) winding technique so magnetic fields of adjacent
turns cancel, avoiding unwanted inductance — important in AC/RF measurement resistors.

Colour Code for Resistors

The standard 4-band resistor colour code: first two bands = significant digits, third band = multiplier, fourth band = tolerance.
Colour Digit Multiplier Tolerance
Black 0 ×10⁰ —
Brown 1 ×10¹ ±1%
Red 2 ×10² ±2%
Orange 3 ×10³ —
Yellow 4 ×10⁴ —
Green 5 ×10⁵ ±0.5%
Blue 6 ×10⁶ ±0.25%
Violet 7 ×10⁷ ±0.1%
Grey 8 ×10⁸ —
White 9 ×10⁹ —
Gold — ×10⁻¹ ±5%
Silver — ×10⁻² ±10%
Memory Trick (classic mnemonic used across electronics training): 'B B ROY of Great Britain has a Very Good Wife' =
Black, Brown, Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Violet, Grey, White.

Inductance and Capacitance — Uses

Inductors store energy in a magnetic field; used in filters, chokes, transformers, tuning circuits. Capacitors store energy in an
electric field; used in filters, power factor correction, coupling/decoupling, and tuning circuits.
Capacitor colour coding follows a similar digit-multiplier-tolerance scheme to resistors on some types (e.g., ceramic disc
capacitors), though many modern capacitors use direct alphanumeric printing instead.
1(e) Transformers
Working Principle
A transformer is a static electrical machine that transfers electrical energy from one circuit to another through mutual
electromagnetic induction, without a change in frequency. It has no moving parts.
It works on the principle of Faraday's Law of Electromagnetic Induction: an alternating current in the primary winding
creates a changing magnetic flux in the core, which induces an EMF in the secondary winding.

Turns Ratio and Windings

Turns ratio = Np/Ns = Vp/Vs = Is/Ip (for an ideal transformer), where Np, Ns are primary and secondary turns.
Step-up transformer: Ns > Np, secondary voltage higher than primary (used at generating stations to raise voltage for
transmission). Step-down transformer: Ns < Np, secondary voltage lower (used near load centres).
A tertiary winding is a third winding provided (in addition to primary and secondary) on some power transformers, often
used for auxiliary supply, providing a path for third-harmonic currents, or connecting a synchronous condenser/capacitor
bank. Tappings on windings allow the turns ratio (and hence output voltage) to be varied for voltage regulation.

Losses and Efficiency

Loss Type Cause Nature
Copper (I²R) Loss Resistance of primary/secondary Variable loss — depends on load
windings current
Iron / Core Loss (Hysteresis + Alternating flux in the core Constant loss — depends on
Eddy Current) voltage/frequency, not load
Hysteresis loss occurs due to repeated magnetisation/demagnetisation of the core and is reduced by using silicon steel
(CRGO) cores. Eddy current loss occurs due to circulating currents induced in the core itself and is reduced by using
laminated cores (thin, insulated laminations) instead of a solid core.
Efficiency (η) = Output power / Input power = Output / (Output + Cu loss + Iron loss). Maximum efficiency occurs when
copper loss equals iron loss.

Cooling of Transformers
● AN (Air Natural) / ONAN (Oil Natural, Air Natural) — natural convection cooling, used for smaller transformers.
● ONAF (Oil Natural, Air Forced) — fans assist air cooling of the oil-filled radiator.
● OFAF / OFWF (Oil Forced, Air/Water Forced) — pumps circulate oil for larger power transformers.
Transformer oil serves a dual purpose: it acts as an insulating medium and as a cooling medium. Periodic oil testing
(dielectric strength / BDV test) and filtration are carried out to remove moisture and contamination and maintain insulation
quality.

Voltage Regulation and Parallel Operation

Voltage regulation is the change in secondary terminal voltage from no-load to full-load, expressed as a percentage of the
rated voltage, for a constant primary voltage — it indicates how well the transformer maintains constant output voltage under
load.
For successful parallel operation of two transformers, key conditions include: same voltage ratio (turns ratio), same
percentage impedance, same polarity, and (for 3-phase) same phase sequence and vector group — so that load is shared
proportionally and no large circulating current flows between them.
Quick Revision Sheet — Module 1
● V = IR (Ohm's Law); P = VI = I²R = V²/R
● KCL: sum of currents at a node = 0 (charge conservation). KVL: sum of voltages around a loop = 0 (energy
conservation)
● RMS = 0.707 × Peak; Average = 0.637 × Peak (sine wave); Form factor = 1.11; Peak factor = 1.414
● Pure R: V, I in phase. Pure L: I lags V by 90° (ELI). Pure C: I leads V by 90° (ICE)
● Resonant frequency fr = 1/(2π√LC); at resonance XL = XC
● Series resonance = acceptor circuit (min Z, max I). Parallel resonance = rejector circuit (max Z, min I)
● Q = fr/BW = XL/R at resonance. Higher Q → narrower bandwidth → sharper tuning
● S (VA) = apparent; P (W) = active/real; Q (VAR) = reactive. cosφ = P/S = power factor
● Star: VL = √3 Vph, IL = Iph. Delta: VL = Vph, IL = √3 Iph
● 3-phase power = √3 × VL × IL × cosφ
● CT secondary — never open-circuit. PT secondary — never short-circuit
● Pipe earthing is the most common; earth resistance measured with an earth tester (fall-of-potential method)
● Resistor colour code: Black-Brown-Red-Orange-Yellow-Green-Blue-Violet-Grey-White = 0-9; Gold = ±5%, Silver
= ±10%
● Non-inductive resistors use bifilar winding to cancel self-inductance
● Transformer: no moving parts, works on mutual induction, Vp/Vs = Np/Ns = Is/Ip
● Copper loss ∝ load (variable); Iron loss = constant (hysteresis + eddy current)
● Laminated core reduces eddy current loss; CRGO silicon steel reduces hysteresis loss
● Max transformer efficiency when Copper loss = Iron loss
● Transformer oil: insulation + cooling; tested periodically for dielectric strength
Practice MCQs — Module 1: Basic Electricity (90 Questions)
Questions are grouped by sub-topic and graded Easy → Moderate → Difficult. Attempt all before checking the explanation.

Set 1: Elementary Principles, Ohm's Law, Kirchhoff's Laws (Q1–Q18)

Q1. One ampere of current is equivalent to a charge flow rate of:
(A) 1 coulomb per minute
(B) 1 coulomb per second
(C) 1 joule per second
(D) 1 volt per second
Answer: (B) 1 coulomb per second
Explanation: By definition, I = Q/t; 1 A = 1 coulomb of charge passing a point per second.

Q2. Ohm's Law is valid provided:

(A) Current is AC only
(B) Temperature and physical conditions remain constant
(C) The conductor is a semiconductor
(D) Voltage is very high
Answer: (B) Temperature and physical conditions remain constant
Explanation: Ohm's Law (V = IR) holds only when temperature and other physical conditions of the conductor remain
unchanged; many materials' resistance varies with temperature.

Q3. Which of the following is a non-ohmic device?

(A) Copper wire at constant temperature
(B) Carbon resistor
(C) Semiconductor diode
(D) Nichrome wire
Answer: (C) Semiconductor diode
Explanation: A diode's V-I characteristic is non-linear (exponential), so it does not obey Ohm's Law; the others are ohmic
under normal conditions.

Q4. Kirchhoff's Current Law is based on the conservation of:

(A) Energy
(B) Charge
(C) Momentum
(D) Mass
Answer: (B) Charge
Explanation: KCL follows directly from the principle of conservation of electric charge — charge cannot accumulate at a
node in steady state.

Q5. Kirchhoff's Voltage Law is based on the conservation of:

(A) Charge
(B) Momentum
(C) Energy
(D) Power factor
Answer: (C) Energy
Explanation: KVL follows from conservation of energy — the net energy gained/lost by a unit charge traversing a closed
loop must be zero.

Q6. The commercial unit of electrical energy is the:

 (A) Watt
(B) Joule
(C) kWh
(D) Ampere-hour
Answer: (C) kWh
Explanation: Electrical energy is billed/measured commercially in kilowatt-hours (kWh), also called a 'Unit'.

Q7. If the voltage across a fixed resistor is doubled, the power dissipated becomes:
(A) Same
(B) Doubled
(C) Halved
(D) Four times
Answer: (D) Four times
Explanation: P = V²/R, so doubling V (with R fixed) increases power by 2² = 4 times.

Q8. At a circuit junction with 3 currents entering and 2 leaving, which law is applied to find the missing current?
(A) Ohm's Law
(B) Kirchhoff's Current Law
(C) Kirchhoff's Voltage Law
(D) Faraday's Law
Answer: (B) Kirchhoff's Current Law
Explanation: KCL applies at nodes/junctions: sum of currents entering = sum of currents leaving.

Q9. Power dissipated in a resistor is due to:

(A) Magnetic effect of current
(B) Heating (I²R) effect of current
(C) Chemical effect of current
(D) Photoelectric effect
Answer: (B) Heating (I²R) effect of current
Explanation: Resistors dissipate energy as heat due to the I²R (Joule heating) effect.

Q10. The reciprocal of resistance is called:

(A) Reactance
(B) Conductance
(C) Susceptance
(D) Admittance
Answer: (B) Conductance
Explanation: Conductance (G), measured in Siemens, is the reciprocal of resistance: G = 1/R.

Q11. 1 kWh of electrical energy equals:

(A) 1000 Joules
(B) 3.6 × 10⁶ Joules
(C) 3600 Joules
(D) 1000 Watts
Answer: (B) 3.6 × 10⁶ Joules
Explanation: 1 kWh = 1000 W × 3600 s = 3.6 × 10⁶ Joules.

Q12. Which instrument is typically used to measure DC current directly (PMMC type)?
(A) Moving Iron meter
(B) Permanent Magnet Moving Coil (PMMC) meter
(C) Hot wire meter
(D) Induction type meter
Answer: (B) Permanent Magnet Moving Coil (PMMC) meter
Explanation: PMMC instruments respond to average (DC) current direction and are used for DC measurements; they
cannot read pure AC directly without rectification.

Q13. Which of these is NOT a base SI electrical unit but a derived one?
(A) Ampere
(B) Ohm
(C) Coulomb (as charge)
(D) None, all listed are correctly classified
Answer: (B) Ohm
Explanation: The Ohm (resistance) is a derived unit (V/A); the Ampere is a base SI unit.

Q14. A resistor of 10 Ω carries 2 A. The power dissipated is:

(A) 10 W
(B) 20 W
(C) 40 W
(D) 100 W
Answer: (C) 40 W
Explanation: P = I²R = 2² × 10 = 40 W.

Q15. Kirchhoff's laws are applicable to:

(A) DC circuits only
(B) AC circuits only
(C) Both AC and DC circuits
(D) Only resistive circuits
Answer: (C) Both AC and DC circuits
Explanation: Kirchhoff's Laws are general circuit laws applicable to both AC (using phasor/complex quantities) and DC
networks.

Q16. The algebraic sum of all currents at a node in a circuit is:

(A) Always positive
(B) Always negative
(C) Zero
(D) Equal to the supply voltage
Answer: (C) Zero
Explanation: As per KCL, the algebraic sum of currents at a junction is zero (currents entering are taken positive, leaving
negative, or vice versa).

Q17. EMF is best defined as:

(A) Energy dissipated per unit charge
(B) Energy supplied by a source per unit charge
(C) Force per unit charge in a magnetic field
(D) Power delivered per second
Answer: (B) Energy supplied by a source per unit charge
Explanation: EMF (electromotive force) is the energy supplied by a source (like a battery) to drive a unit charge around a
complete circuit.

Q18. Which law would you use to analyse a complex multi-loop network with several EMF sources?
(A) Ohm's Law alone
(B) Kirchhoff's Laws (KCL and KVL)
(C) Lenz's Law
(D) Coulomb's Law
Answer: (B) Kirchhoff's Laws (KCL and KVL)
Explanation: Multi-loop/multi-source networks are systematically solved using Kirchhoff's Current and Voltage Laws
(mesh/nodal analysis).

Set 2: AC Fundamentals, Peak/Average/RMS (Q19–Q32)

Q19. The average value of a pure sinusoidal AC over one complete cycle is:
(A) 0.637 × Peak
(B) 0.707 × Peak
(C) Zero
(D) Equal to peak value
Answer: (C) Zero
Explanation: Over a full cycle the positive and negative half-cycles cancel exactly, giving zero average; average value is
meaningfully defined only over a half cycle (0.637 × peak).

Q20. RMS value of AC is also known as:

(A) Peak value
(B) Effective value
(C) Instantaneous value
(D) Form factor
Answer: (B) Effective value
Explanation: RMS value is called the 'effective value' because it produces the same heating effect in a resistor as an
equivalent DC value.

Q21. For a pure sine wave, the form factor is approximately:

(A) 0.637
(B) 0.707
(C) 1.11
(D) 1.414
Answer: (C) 1.11
Explanation: Form factor = RMS/Average = 0.707/0.637 ≈ 1.11 for a pure sinusoid.

Q22. The peak factor (crest factor) for a sinusoidal waveform is:
(A) 1.11
(B) 1.414
(C) 0.707
(D) 2.0
Answer: (B) 1.414
Explanation: Peak factor = Peak/RMS = 1/0.707 = 1.414 (√2) for a pure sine wave.

Q23. A domestic AC supply rated '230 V' refers to its:

(A) Peak value
(B) Average value
(C) RMS value
(D) Instantaneous value
Answer: (C) RMS value
Explanation: Unless stated otherwise, all standard AC voltage/current ratings (230V, 415V) refer to RMS values.

Q24. The peak value of a 230 V (RMS) supply is approximately:

(A) 163 V
(B) 230 V
(C) 325 V
(D) 460 V
Answer: (C) 325 V
Explanation: Peak = RMS × 1.414 = 230 × 1.414 ≈ 325 V.

Q25. The frequency of AC mains supply in India is standardised at:

(A) 25 Hz
(B) 50 Hz
(C) 60 Hz
(D) 100 Hz
Answer: (B) 50 Hz
Explanation: Indian mains supply frequency is standardised at 50 Hz (USA uses 60 Hz).

Q26. An AC ammeter (moving-iron type) actually indicates the:

(A) Peak value
(B) RMS value
(C) Average value
(D) Instantaneous value at switch-on
Answer: (B) RMS value
Explanation: Moving-iron instruments respond to the heating/RMS effect of current, hence they read RMS values directly
regardless of waveform shape.

Q27. Instantaneous value of AC current is expressed as i = Im sin(ωt); here ω represents:

(A) Frequency in Hz
(B) Angular frequency in rad/s
(C) Time period
(D) Phase angle
Answer: (B) Angular frequency in rad/s
Explanation: ω is angular frequency = 2πf, measured in radians per second.

Q28. If the frequency of an AC supply is 50 Hz, its time period is:

(A) 0.5 s
(B) 0.02 s
(C) 20 s
(D) 5 s
Answer: (B) 0.02 s
Explanation: T = 1/f = 1/50 = 0.02 s.

Q29. A full-wave rectified DC signal (from AC) has an average value equal to:
(A) 0
(B) 0.318 × Peak
(C) 0.637 × Peak
(D) 0.707 × Peak
Answer: (C) 0.637 × Peak
Explanation: For full-wave rectified sine, average value over the full cycle = 0.637 × Peak (same magnitude as half-cycle
average of AC, since both half cycles now add).

Q30. Angular frequency ω is related to frequency f by:

(A) ω = f/2π
(B) ω = 2πf
(C) ω = πf
(D) ω = f²
Answer: (B) ω = 2πf
Explanation: ω = 2πf (radians per second).

Q31. A capacitor is connected to pure AC; instantaneous current leads instantaneous voltage by:
 (A) 0°
(B) 45°
(C) 90°
(D) 180°
Answer: (C) 90°
Explanation: In a pure capacitive circuit, current leads voltage by exactly 90°.

Q32. Which value of AC would give the same I²R heating in a resistor as an equivalent DC?
(A) Peak value
(B) Average value
(C) RMS value
(D) Form factor
Answer: (C) RMS value
Explanation: By definition, the RMS value is the DC-equivalent value for heating effect (Joule heating) purposes.

Set 3: Resonance, Q-Factor, Bandwidth, Power Factor (Q33–Q50)

Q33. Resonance in a series R-L-C circuit occurs when:
(A) R = XL
(B) XL = XC
(C) R = 0
(D) XC = 0
Answer: (B) XL = XC
Explanation: Resonance occurs when inductive and capacitive reactances are equal, cancelling each other so net reactance
is zero.

Q34. At series resonance, the impedance of the circuit is:

(A) Maximum, equal to XL
(B) Minimum, equal to R
(C) Zero
(D) Infinite
Answer: (B) Minimum, equal to R
Explanation: At series resonance, Z = R (minimum possible impedance, since reactance cancels), hence current is maximum.

Q35. A series resonant circuit is also known as a/an:

(A) Rejector circuit
(B) Acceptor circuit
(C) Filter circuit only
(D) Attenuator circuit
Answer: (B) Acceptor circuit
Explanation: Series resonant circuits offer minimum impedance (maximum current) at resonant frequency, 'accepting' that
frequency — hence 'acceptor circuit'.

Q36. A parallel resonant circuit offers _____ impedance at resonance.

(A) Minimum
(B) Zero
(C) Maximum
(D) Negative
Answer: (C) Maximum
Explanation: At parallel resonance, dynamic impedance is maximum and line current is minimum — hence it is called a
'rejector circuit'.

Q37. The resonant frequency of an L-C circuit is given by:

 (A) f = 2π√(LC)
(B) f = 1/(2π√(LC))
(C) f = LC/2π
(D) f = 2πLC
Answer: (B) f = 1/(2π√(LC))
Explanation: Standard formula: fr = 1/(2π√LC).

Q38. Q-factor of a resonant circuit is defined as:

(A) R/XL
(B) fr/Bandwidth
(C) Bandwidth/fr
(D) R × XL
Answer: (B) fr/Bandwidth
Explanation: Q = fr/BW (also equals XL/R at resonance for a series circuit).

Q39. A high Q-factor circuit has:

(A) Wide bandwidth, poor selectivity
(B) Narrow bandwidth, high selectivity
(C) No effect on selectivity
(D) Zero bandwidth always
Answer: (B) Narrow bandwidth, high selectivity
Explanation: Higher Q means a sharper resonance curve, narrower bandwidth, and better frequency selectivity — desirable
for tuning circuits.

Q40. Bandwidth is measured between the two frequencies where power falls to:
(A) Zero
(B) Half of maximum (70.7% of max voltage/current)
(C) Maximum value
(D) Twice the maximum value
Answer: (B) Half of maximum (70.7% of max voltage/current)
Explanation: Bandwidth spans the half-power points, where amplitude falls to 1/√2 (70.7%) of its peak value.

Q41. Increasing circuit resistance in a resonant circuit generally:

(A) Increases Q and narrows bandwidth
(B) Decreases Q and widens bandwidth (more damping)
(C) Has no effect on Q
(D) Makes resonance impossible
Answer: (B) Decreases Q and widens bandwidth (more damping)
Explanation: More resistance increases damping, lowering Q and broadening bandwidth.

Q42. Power factor is defined as the ratio of:

(A) Reactive power to apparent power
(B) Active power to apparent power
(C) Apparent power to active power
(D) Reactive power to active power
Answer: (B) Active power to apparent power
Explanation: cosφ = Active Power (P) / Apparent Power (S).

Q43. A purely inductive circuit has a power factor of:

(A) 1 (unity)
(B) 0 (lagging)
(C) 0.5 (lagging)
(D) 0 (leading)
Answer: (B) 0 (lagging)
Explanation: In a pure inductor, current lags voltage by 90°, so cosφ = cos90° = 0, and this is a lagging power factor.

Q44. Low power factor in an industrial installation mainly leads to:

(A) Reduced current for same load
(B) Increased current and higher I²R losses for the same active power
(C) Improved voltage regulation
(D) No practical disadvantage
Answer: (B) Increased current and higher I²R losses for the same active power
Explanation: A low power factor means more current is needed to deliver the same real power, increasing line losses and
requiring larger conductors/equipment.

Q45. Power factor correction for an inductive (lagging PF) load is typically done by connecting:
(A) An inductor in series
(B) A capacitor bank in parallel
(C) A resistor in series
(D) A transformer in series
Answer: (B) A capacitor bank in parallel
Explanation: Shunt capacitor banks supply leading reactive power that cancels the lagging reactive power drawn by
inductive loads, improving overall power factor.

Q46. Apparent power is measured in units of:

(A) Watt
(B) VAR
(C) VA
(D) Joule
Answer: (C) VA
Explanation: Apparent power S is measured in volt-amperes (VA), since S = VI without the power-factor multiplier.

Q47. In the power triangle, the relation between S, P, and Q is:

(A) S = P + Q
(B) S² = P² + Q²
(C) S = P - Q
(D) P² = S² + Q²
Answer: (B) S² = P² + Q²
Explanation: The power triangle is a right triangle: S² = P² + Q² (S is hypotenuse, P and Q are perpendicular legs).

Q48. Damping in a resonant circuit refers to:

(A) The sharpening of the resonance peak
(B) The loss of energy (mainly due to resistance) which broadens/flattens response
(C) Increase of Q-factor
(D) Perfect resonance with no losses
Answer: (B) The loss of energy (mainly due to resistance) which broadens/flattens response
Explanation: Damping is energy dissipation (mostly resistive) that reduces the sharpness of the resonance peak and
broadens the bandwidth.

Q49. Which of the following circuits is used in radio receiver tuning to select a desired station?
(A) High-pass filter only
(B) Parallel resonant (tank) circuit
(C) Pure resistive circuit
(D) Rectifier circuit
Answer: (B) Parallel resonant (tank) circuit
Explanation: A parallel resonant (tank) circuit, tuned to the desired station's frequency, offers maximum impedance at that
frequency, effectively selecting it while rejecting others.

Q50. Reactive power does which of the following?

(A) Performs useful work continuously
(B) Oscillates between source and reactive (L/C) elements without net work done
(C) Is always zero in AC circuits
(D) Equals apparent power in a resistive circuit
Answer: (B) Oscillates between source and reactive (L/C) elements without net work done
Explanation: Reactive power represents energy that is alternately stored and returned by inductors/capacitors — it does no
net useful work over a cycle.

Set 4: Poly-Phase (3-Phase) Circuits (Q51–Q60)

Q51. The standard phase sequence used in Indian power systems is:
(A) R-B-Y
(B) R-Y-B
(C) Y-R-B
(D) B-Y-R
Answer: (B) R-Y-B
Explanation: The standard phase sequence in Indian practice is R-Y-B (Red-Yellow-Blue).

Q52. In a Star-connected balanced 3-phase system, the relationship between line and phase voltage is:
(A) VL = Vph
(B) VL = √3 Vph
(C) VL = 3Vph
(D) VL = Vph/√3
Answer: (B) VL = √3 Vph
Explanation: For Star connection: VL = √3 × Vph.

Q53. In a Delta-connected balanced 3-phase system, line current relates to phase current as:
(A) IL = Iph
(B) IL = √3 Iph
(C) IL = Iph/√3
(D) IL = 3Iph
Answer: (B) IL = √3 Iph
Explanation: For Delta connection: IL = √3 × Iph.

Q54. A Star connection provides access to a neutral point, which is:

(A) Never used
(B) Used to supply single-phase loads and provide a 4-wire system
(C) Only used for earthing, never for load
(D) Not possible in 3-phase systems
Answer: (B) Used to supply single-phase loads and provide a 4-wire system
Explanation: The neutral point in Star connection allows single-phase loads to be drawn between any phase and neutral,
forming a common 4-wire distribution system.

Q55. Total power in a balanced 3-phase system is given by:

(A) P = VLIL cosφ
(B) P = √3 VLIL cosφ
(C) P = 3VLIL cosφ
(D) P = VLIL/√3 cosφ
Answer: (B) P = √3 VLIL cosφ
Explanation: Balanced 3-phase power: P = √3 × VL × IL × cosφ.

Q56. Delta connection does NOT provide:

(A) A closed loop of windings
(B) A neutral point
(C) Line current higher than phase current
(D) Suitability for motor windings
Answer: (B) A neutral point
Explanation: Delta connection has no common neutral point, unlike Star connection.

Q57. If a 3-phase system is unbalanced, which conductor is most affected by carrying an additional current?
(A) Any one line conductor
(B) The neutral conductor
(C) The earth conductor only
(D) None, current stays balanced automatically
Answer: (B) The neutral conductor
Explanation: In an unbalanced Star system, the neutral conductor carries the resultant unbalance current, which can cause
overheating if not properly rated.

Q58. Why is balancing of 3-phase loads important?

(A) To reduce cost of switches only
(B) To avoid neutral current, uneven voltage drop and overheating
(C) To increase supply frequency
(D) To convert AC into DC
Answer: (B) To avoid neutral current, uneven voltage drop and overheating
Explanation: Balanced loading keeps neutral current minimal and ensures even voltage distribution across the three phases,
avoiding overheating and voltage fluctuation issues.

Q59. Phase voltage in a Star-connected 415 V (line) supply is approximately:

(A) 415 V
(B) 240 V
(C) 720 V
(D) 115 V
Answer: (B) 240 V
Explanation: Vph = VL/√3 = 415/1.732 ≈ 240 V — the standard single-phase domestic supply voltage in India.

Q60. Alternator (generator) stator windings for power generation are usually connected in:
(A) Delta only
(B) Star, to allow neutral earthing and access to phase voltage
(C) Open configuration
(D) Series aiding only
Answer: (B) Star, to allow neutral earthing and access to phase voltage
Explanation: Generator windings are typically Star-connected so the neutral point can be earthed and phase voltage made
available, improving insulation coordination and providing a reference for protection.

Set 5: Electrical Wiring, Earthing, CT/PT, Circuit Breakers (Q61–Q75)

Q61. A fuse protects a circuit primarily by:
(A) Increasing resistance permanently
(B) Melting due to heating effect when current exceeds a safe limit
(C) Reducing voltage
(D) Converting AC to DC
Answer: (B) Melting due to heating effect when current exceeds a safe limit
Explanation: A fuse element melts (I²R heating effect) when current exceeds its rated value, opening the circuit and
protecting downstream equipment.

Q62. Unlike a fuse, a circuit breaker:

(A) Cannot be reset after operation
(B) Can be reset/reclosed after tripping, without replacement
(C) Only works on DC
(D) Has no current rating
Answer: (B) Can be reset/reclosed after tripping, without replacement
Explanation: A circuit breaker's key advantage over a fuse is that it can be manually or automatically reclosed after clearing
a fault, without needing replacement of parts.

Q63. OCB uses which medium for arc quenching?

(A) Compressed air
(B) SF6 gas
(C) Insulating (transformer) oil
(D) Vacuum
Answer: (C) Insulating (transformer) oil
Explanation: OCB stands for Oil Circuit Breaker, which uses insulating oil to quench the arc during interruption.

Q64. The secondary winding of a Current Transformer (CT) in service must never be:
(A) Short-circuited
(B) Left open-circuited
(C) Connected to an ammeter
(D) Earthed
Answer: (B) Left open-circuited
Explanation: An open CT secondary while the primary carries current leads to dangerously high induced voltage; it must
always be kept closed (shorted or through a burden) when the primary is energised.

Q65. The secondary of a Potential Transformer (PT) must never be:

(A) Open-circuited
(B) Short-circuited
(C) Connected to a voltmeter
(D) Fused
Answer: (B) Short-circuited
Explanation: Short-circuiting a PT secondary causes very high current to flow, which can damage the transformer — the
opposite precaution to a CT.

Q66. Standard CT secondary current rating is commonly:

(A) 1 A or 5 A
(B) 100 A
(C) 230 V
(D) 440 V
Answer: (A) 1 A or 5 A
Explanation: CT secondaries are standardised typically at 1 A or 5 A for connecting to meters/relays.

Q67. Standard PT secondary voltage rating is commonly:

(A) 5 V
(B) 24 V
(C) 110 V
(D) 440 V
Answer: (C) 110 V
Explanation: PT (voltage transformer) secondaries are standardised typically at 110 V.
Q68. Pipe earthing uses which primary component driven into the ground?
(A) A copper plate
(B) A galvanized iron (GI) pipe
(C) A carbon rod
(D) An aluminium strip
Answer: (B) A galvanized iron (GI) pipe
Explanation: Pipe earthing uses a GI pipe driven vertically into moist ground, often surrounded by charcoal/salt to lower
resistance; it is the most common earthing method.

Q69. Earth resistance is typically measured using:

(A) An ammeter
(B) A megger/earth tester using the fall-of-potential method
(C) A wattmeter
(D) A frequency meter
Answer: (B) A megger/earth tester using the fall-of-potential method
Explanation: Earth resistance is measured with a dedicated earth tester instrument, using the fall-of-potential (three-point)
method with auxiliary electrodes.

Q70. A lower earth resistance value generally indicates:

(A) A poorer/less effective earth connection
(B) A better, more effective earth connection
(C) No relation to earth effectiveness
(D) A fault in the earthing system
Answer: (B) A better, more effective earth connection
Explanation: Lower resistance provides a more effective low-impedance path for fault current, which is desirable for safety
and protection coordination.

Q71. Strip or wire earthing is typically preferred in:

(A) Loose, sandy soil
(B) Rocky soil where deep digging is difficult
(C) Areas requiring the lowest possible resistance always
(D) Marine environments only
Answer: (B) Rocky soil where deep digging is difficult
Explanation: Strip/wire earthing, buried in horizontal trenches, avoids the need to dig deep pits and is suited to rocky or
hard soil conditions.

Q72. An Austin transformer is primarily used for:

(A) Stepping down grid voltage for domestic use
(B) Feeding power to lamps/obstruction lights mounted on an insulated transmitting mast
(C) Measuring earth resistance
(D) Correcting power factor
Answer: (B) Feeding power to lamps/obstruction lights mounted on an insulated transmitting mast
Explanation: The Austin transformer safely couples power to mast-top obstruction/navigation lights while isolating the
lighting circuit from the high RF potential of the transmitting mast.

Q73. Conduit wiring refers to:

(A) Wires laid openly on walls without any covering
(B) Cables run inside metal/PVC tubes (conduits) for mechanical protection
(C) Overhead bare wire distribution
(D) Wireless power transmission
Answer: (B) Cables run inside metal/PVC tubes (conduits) for mechanical protection
Explanation: Conduit wiring routes cables through metal or PVC conduit pipes, giving mechanical protection and a neat,
safer installation, commonly used in institutional/industrial buildings.
Q74. Which is generally a better conductor for electrical wiring: copper or aluminium (for the same cross-section)?
(A) Aluminium, always
(B) Copper, due to lower resistivity
(C) Both are identical
(D) Neither is used for wiring
Answer: (B) Copper, due to lower resistivity
Explanation: Copper has lower electrical resistivity than aluminium, making it a better conductor for a given cross-sectional
area, though aluminium is lighter and cheaper and used extensively for overhead transmission lines.

Q75. The SWG (Standard Wire Gauge) number and wire diameter are related as:
(A) Higher SWG number = thicker wire
(B) Higher SWG number = thinner wire
(C) SWG has no relation to diameter
(D) SWG measures only insulation thickness
Answer: (B) Higher SWG number = thinner wire
Explanation: In SWG, a higher gauge number corresponds to a smaller (thinner) wire diameter — an inverse relationship.

Set 6: Resistors, Colour Codes, R-L-C Types (Q76–Q83)

Q76. In the standard resistor colour code, the colour 'Black' represents the digit:
(A) 1
(B) 0
(C) 9
(D) No digit
Answer: (B) 0
Explanation: Black corresponds to digit 0 in the resistor colour code.

Q77. A resistor with colour bands Red-Violet-Orange-Gold has a resistance and tolerance of:
(A) 27 kΩ, ±10%
(B) 27 kΩ, ±5%
(C) 270 Ω, ±5%
(D) 2.7 kΩ, ±5%
Answer: (B) 27 kΩ, ±5%
Explanation: Red=2, Violet=7 → 27; Orange multiplier = ×10³ → 27,000 Ω = 27 kΩ; Gold = ±5% tolerance.

Q78. Which colour band indicates a tolerance of ±10%?

(A) Gold
(B) Silver
(C) Brown
(D) Red
Answer: (B) Silver
Explanation: Silver indicates ±10% tolerance on the standard 4-band resistor colour code.

Q79. A rheostat is typically a:

(A) 3-terminal potentiometer used for voltage division
(B) 2-terminal variable resistor used to control current
(C) Fixed resistor
(D) Type of capacitor
Answer: (B) 2-terminal variable resistor used to control current
Explanation: A rheostat is generally used in a 2-terminal connection to vary/limit current in a circuit; a potentiometer (3-
terminal) is used for voltage division.

Q80. A non-inductive resistor is constructed using a special winding technique to:

 (A) Increase its inductance for tuning use
(B) Cancel out self-inductance of the winding
(C) Reduce its resistance value
(D) Increase its physical size
Answer: (B) Cancel out self-inductance of the winding
Explanation: Bifilar (doubled-back) winding cancels the magnetic fields of adjacent turns, minimising unwanted self-
inductance — important for accurate AC/RF resistive standards.

Q81. Which component stores energy in the form of an electric field?

(A) Inductor
(B) Resistor
(C) Capacitor
(D) Transformer
Answer: (C) Capacitor
Explanation: Capacitors store energy in the electric field between their plates (E = ½CV²).

Q82. Which component stores energy in the form of a magnetic field?

(A) Capacitor
(B) Inductor
(C) Resistor
(D) Rheostat
Answer: (B) Inductor
Explanation: Inductors store energy in the magnetic field set up by current flowing through their coil (E = ½LI²).

Q83. Power cable ratings are primarily specified based on:

(A) Colour of insulation only
(B) Current-carrying capacity and voltage rating
(C) Length of cable only
(D) Manufacturer's brand name
Answer: (B) Current-carrying capacity and voltage rating
Explanation: Cables are rated by their safe current-carrying capacity (ampacity, based on conductor size and insulation)
and their voltage withstand rating.

Set 7: Transformers (Q84–Q90)

Q84. A transformer works on the principle of:
(A) Self-induction only
(B) Mutual electromagnetic induction
(C) Piezoelectric effect
(D) Thermoelectric effect
Answer: (B) Mutual electromagnetic induction
Explanation: Transformers transfer energy between windings via mutual induction — a changing flux from the primary
induces EMF in the secondary.

Q85. In an ideal transformer, the turns ratio Np/Ns equals:

(A) Is/Ip
(B) Ip/Is
(C) Vs/Vp
(D) Both A and — Vp/Vs
Answer: (D) Both A and — Vp/Vs
Explanation: Np/Ns = Vp/Vs = Is/Ip; so turns ratio equals both the voltage ratio and inverse current ratio (option combines
the correct relations).
Q86. Which loss in a transformer depends on load current?
(A) Hysteresis loss
(B) Eddy current loss
(C) Copper (I²R) loss
(D) Core loss
Answer: (C) Copper (I²R) loss
Explanation: Copper loss (I²R in windings) is a variable loss that depends directly on the load current; iron/core losses
(hysteresis + eddy current) are essentially constant, depending on supply voltage/frequency.

Q87. Laminating the transformer core primarily reduces:

(A) Hysteresis loss
(B) Eddy current loss
(C) Copper loss
(D) Dielectric loss
Answer: (B) Eddy current loss
Explanation: Thin, insulated laminations increase the resistance path for circulating eddy currents within the core,
substantially reducing eddy current loss.

Q88. Maximum efficiency of a transformer occurs when:

(A) Copper loss is zero
(B) Iron loss is zero
(C) Copper loss equals iron loss
(D) Copper loss is twice the iron loss
Answer: (C) Copper loss equals iron loss
Explanation: Transformer efficiency is maximum at the load point where variable copper loss equals the constant iron loss.

Q89. Transformer oil serves the dual function of:

(A) Insulation and cooling
(B) Only cooling
(C) Only insulation
(D) Lubrication and cooling
Answer: (A) Insulation and cooling
Explanation: Transformer oil acts both as a dielectric (insulating) medium and as a coolant, carrying heat away from the
windings/core to the tank/radiator surface.

Q90. For successful parallel operation, two transformers must have the same:
(A) Colour of paint and manufacturer
(B) Voltage (turns) ratio, polarity and percentage impedance
(C) Physical size only
(D) Oil quantity only
Answer: (B) Voltage (turns) ratio, polarity and percentage impedance
Explanation: Key conditions for parallel operation include equal voltage ratio, correct polarity, equal percentage impedance
(and matching phase sequence/vector group for 3-phase), to ensure proper load sharing without large circulating currents.
Unit Test — Module 1: Basic Electricity (40 Questions, Answer Key
Only)
Simulate exam conditions: attempt all 40 questions without referring to the theory, then check the answer key at the end.
Recommended time: 30 minutes.
1. The unit of electrical conductance is:
(A) Ohm (B) Siemens (C) Farad (D) Henry
2. Kirchhoff's Voltage Law is a statement of:
(A) Charge conservation (B) Energy conservation (C) Mass conservation (D) Momentum conservation
3. RMS value of a sine wave with peak 100V is approximately:
(A) 100 V (B) 70.7 V (C) 63.7 V (D) 141.4 V
4. In a pure inductive circuit, current:
(A) Leads voltage by 90° (B) Lags voltage by 90° (C) Is in phase with voltage (D) Leads voltage by 45°
5. Series resonance gives:
(A) Maximum impedance (B) Minimum impedance (C) Zero current (D) Infinite current
6. Parallel resonant circuit is called a:
(A) Acceptor circuit (B) Rejector circuit (C) Filter only (D) Amplifier circuit
7. Q-factor equals:
(A) fr × BW (B) fr / BW (C) BW / fr (D) BW - fr
8. Power factor of a purely resistive circuit is:
(A) 0 (B) 0.5 (C) 1 (D) Cannot be determined
9. Star connection gives line voltage as:
(A) Equal to phase voltage (B) √3 times phase voltage (C) Half the phase voltage (D) 3 times phase voltage
10. Delta connection gives line current as:
(A) Equal to phase current (B) √3 times phase current (C) Half phase current (D) 3 times phase current
11. CT secondary must never be:
(A) Short-circuited (B) Left open (C) Earthed (D) Connected to ammeter
12. PT secondary must never be:
(A) Open-circuited (B) Short-circuited (C) Connected to voltmeter (D) Earthed
13. Most common type of earthing used in installations is:
(A) Plate earthing (B) Pipe earthing (C) Strip earthing (D) Rod earthing
14. OCB uses which arc-quenching medium?
(A) Air (B) Oil (C) SF6 (D) Vacuum
15. Resistor colour Brown represents digit:
(A) 0 (B) 1 (C) 2 (D) 3
16. Gold band on a resistor indicates tolerance of:
(A) ±1% (B) ±2% (C) ±5% (D) ±10%
17. A rheostat is used to control:
(A) Voltage division (B) Current (C) Frequency (D) Power factor only
18. Non-inductive resistors use which winding technique?
(A) Solenoid winding (B) Bifilar winding (C) Toroidal winding only (D) Random winding
19. A transformer works on:
(A) Self-induction (B) Mutual induction (C) Piezoelectric effect (D) Photoelectric effect
20. Copper loss in a transformer varies with:
(A) Frequency only (B) Load current (C) Core material only (D) Oil temperature only
21. Iron loss in a transformer is:
(A) Variable with load (B) Constant, independent of load (C) Zero always (D) Equal to copper loss always
22. Laminated cores reduce:
(A) Hysteresis loss (B) Eddy current loss (C) Copper loss (D) Dielectric loss
23. Transformer efficiency is maximum when:
(A) Copper loss = 0 (B) Iron loss = 0 (C) Copper loss = Iron loss (D) Copper loss = 2×Iron loss
24. Transformer oil provides:
(A) Insulation only (B) Cooling only (C) Both insulation and cooling (D) Neither
25. An Austin transformer is used for:
(A) Mast lighting isolation (B) Power factor correction (C) Voltage regulation of grid (D) Earth resistance testing
26. Standard AC voltage ratings (like 230V) refer to:
(A) Peak value (B) Average value (C) RMS value (D) Instantaneous value
27. Frequency of Indian AC mains supply:
(A) 25 Hz (B) 50 Hz (C) 60 Hz (D) 100 Hz
28. Form factor of a sine wave is approximately:
(A) 1.0 (B) 1.11 (C) 1.41 (D) 0.707
29. Peak factor of a sine wave is approximately:
(A) 1.11 (B) 1.41 (C) 0.707 (D) 0.637
30. Ohm's Law is valid only when:
(A) Current is AC (B) Temperature is constant (C) Voltage is DC only (D) Resistance is variable
31. A fuse operates based on:
(A) Magnetic effect (B) Heating (I²R) effect of current (C) Chemical effect (D) Photoelectric effect
32. Unlike fuses, circuit breakers can be:
(A) Reset after tripping (B) Used only once (C) Used only on DC (D) Used without any rating
33. Resonant frequency formula is:
(A) f = 2π√LC (B) f = 1/(2π√LC) (C) f = LC/2π (D) f = 2πLC
34. At resonance, XL equals:
(A) R (B) XC (C) Zero (D) Infinity
35. Balanced 3-phase power formula is:
(A) VLIL cosφ (B) √3 VLIL cosφ (C) 3VLIL cosφ (D) VLIL/√3 cosφ
36. Standard phase sequence in India is:
(A) R-B-Y (B) R-Y-B (C) Y-B-R (D) B-R-Y
37. Reactive power unit is:
(A) Watt (B) VA (C) VAR (D) Joule
38. Power factor correction uses:
(A) Series inductor (B) Parallel capacitor bank (C) Series resistor (D) Parallel inductor
39. Standard CT secondary current rating:
(A) 1A or 5A (B) 10A or 20A (C) 100A (D) 230V
40. Which stores energy in a magnetic field?
(A) Capacitor (B) Inductor (C) Resistor (D) Diode
Unit Test Answer Key
1-B 2-B 3-B 4-B 5-B 6-B 7-B 8-C 9-B 10-B 11-B 12-B 13-B 14-B 15-B 16-C 17-B 18-B 19-B 20-B
21-B 22-B 23-C 24-C 25-A 26-C 27-B 28-B 29-B 30-B 31-B 32-A 33-B 34-B 35-B 36-B 37-C 38-B
39-A 40-B