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    Resistors

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    Incredible Iniyan

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    Resistors

    Uploaded by

    Incredible Iniyan
    6 views2 pages

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    6 views2 pages

    Resistors

    Uploaded by

    Incredible Iniyan

    Copyright:

    © All Rights Reserved
    Download as PDF, TXT or read online from Scribd
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    Resistors: Understanding the Basics, Types, and Applications

    1. Introduction to Resistors

    A resistor is a passive electrical component that opposes the flow of electric current in a circuit.
    It is one of the fundamental components in electronics and plays a crucial role in controlling
    voltage and current within circuits. By resisting current, resistors help manage the energy levels
    and protect sensitive components from damage due to excessive current. The resistance of a
    resistor is measured in ohms (Ω), named after German physicist Georg Simon Ohm. The higher
    the resistance value, the more it restricts the flow of electric current.

    2. Working Principle of a Resistor

    Resistors work based on Ohm's Law, which states that the voltage (V) across a resistor is
    proportional to the current (I) flowing through it, with the proportionality constant being the
    resistance (R): V=IRV = IRV=IR This law is fundamental to understanding how resistors control
    current. When a voltage is applied across a resistor, it impedes the flow of electrons, thus
    controlling the amount of current passing through the circuit. The power dissipation in a resistor
    can be calculated by: P=I2RP = I^2RP=I2R This power is usually released as heat, which is why
    resistors are designed to handle specific power levels, such as 1/4 watt, 1/2 watt, or higher,
    depending on their application.

    3. Types of Resistors

    Resistors come in various types, each with distinct construction, materials, and applications:

    a. Fixed Resistors

    • Carbon Composition Resistors: Made from a mixture of carbon powder and a binding
    material, these are inexpensive and widely used in basic applications.

    • Film Resistors: Created by depositing a thin or thick film of resistive material onto an
    insulating substrate. They are more accurate and stable, commonly available as carbon
    film, metal film, or metal oxide film types.

    • Wire-Wound Resistors: Constructed by winding a wire around an insulating core, these


    resistors are ideal for high-power applications because of their excellent heat
    dissipation.

    b. Variable Resistors

    • Potentiometers: Three-terminal devices that allow for the adjustment of resistance,


    often used in volume controls and tuning circuits.

    • Rheostats: Two-terminal variable resistors commonly used for controlling current in


    high-power applications.

    • Trimmers: Small, adjustable resistors used to fine-tune the performance of a circuit


    during its initial calibration.

    c. Specialized Resistors

    • Thermistors: Temperature-sensitive resistors that change resistance significantly with


    temperature variation. They are used in temperature sensing and control applications.

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