CLASS – 12

181
WORKSHEET- ALTERNATING CURRENT

A. RMS AND AVERAGE VALUES OF ALTERNATING CURRENT EMF & POWER

(1 Mark Questions)

1. The instantaneous current and voltage of an ac circuit are given by: i = 10 sin 314t A and
v = 50 sin 314t V. What is the power dissipation in the circuit?
v0 i0 50×10
Ans. Pav = cosϕ = cos0° = 250W.
2 2

2. If the rms current in a 50 Hz ac circuit is 5 A, the value of the current 1/300 seconds after
its value becomes zero is
(a) 5 2 A (b) 5 3 / 2 A (c) 5/6 A (d) 5/ 2 A
Sol. (b)
As given that v = 50Hz, Irms = 5A, t = 1/300s
As we know that Irms = I0/√2
I0 = peak value = √2.Irms = √2 ×5 = 5√2A

At t = 1/300sec, I = I0 sint = 5√2 sin 2 ×50 × 1/300

I = 5√2 sin/3 = 5√2 × √3/2 = 5√(3/2) Amp (Since sin/3 = √3/2)

I = 5 3/ 2 A

3. Can the instantaneous power output of an ac source ever be negative? Can the average
power output be negative?
Sol. Yes, the instantaneous power output of an ac source can be negative. No, the average
power output cannot be negative.

(2 Marks Questions)

4. The electric mains in a house are marked 220V, 50Hz. Write down the equation for
instantaneous voltage.
Sol. Here rms = 220V, f = 50Hz
Instantaneous voltage is given by
 = 0sin t = √2 rmssin 2ft = 1.414 × 220 sin(2 × 3.14 × 50t) = 311 sin314t volt.

5. Calculate the rms value of the alternating current shown in figure.

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 182

I2+I22 +I23 22 +(−2)2+22

Sol. Irms = √ 1 =√ = 2A.
3 3

6. Define peak value and root mean value of an alternating current. Derive an expression for
the root mean square value of alternating current.
Sol. Rot mean square value of an alternating current: It is defined as that value of a steady
voltage that produces the same amount of heat in a given resistance as is produced by the
given alternating emf when applied to the same resistance for the same time. It is also
called virtual or effective value of the alternating emf. It is denoted by rms or eff or v.
Relation:
 = 0sin t
ε20 ε2
Heat produced in a small time dt will be dH = dt= 0 sin2 ωtdt
R R
ε20 T (1−cos2ωt) ε20 sin2ωt T
= R ∫0 dt = 2R [t − ]
2 2ω 0
ε20 1 4π T
= 2R [(T − 0) − 2ω |sin t| ]
T 0
ε20 1
= 2R [T − 2ω sin(4π − sin0)]
ε20 ε20T
Or H = = [ T − 0] =
2R 2R
If rms is the root mean value of the alternating current then the amount of heat produced
ε2rmsT
by it in the same resistance R in time T will be R
ε2rmsT ε20T
From the above two equations we get =
R 2R
ε0
Or rms = √2 = 0.707ε0

7. (a) The peak voltage of an ac supply is 300 V. What is the rms voltage?
(b) The rms value of current in an ac circuit is 10 A. What is the peak current?
[Ans. 212.1 V, 141.14A]

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8. Explain the significance of phasor diagram.
183
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(3 Marks Questions)

9. Derive the average power in ac circuit and explain the term power factor.

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B. RESISTIVE CIRCUIT

(1 Mark Questions)

1. What is the maximum value of power factor? When does it occur?

Sol. One. For a purely resistive circuit,  = 0. Therefore power factor, cos  = cos 0 = 1.

(2 Marks Questions)

2. An alternating voltage given by V = 140 sin314t is connected across a pure resistor of

50. Find (i) the frequency of the source (ii) the rms current through the resistor.
Sol. (i) 2 = 314 rad s-1 ⇒  = 50Hz
Vrms V 140
(ii) irms = where Vrms = = = 1.98A = 2A.
R √2 √2×50

3. The peak value of an alternating voltage applied to a 50 resistance is 10V. Find the rms
current, if the voltage frequency is 100Hz, write the equation for the instantaneous
current.
Sol. Here R = 50, 0 = 10V, f = 100Hz
ε0 10 1
I0 = = 50 = 5 A = 200mA
R
Irms = 0.707 I0 = 0.707 × 200 = 141.4 mA
The instantaneous current is given by I = I0sin 2ft = 200 sin 200 t mA.

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4. A 100 Ω resistor is connected to a 220 V, 50 Hz ac supply. 184
(a) What is the rms value of current in the circuit?
(b) What is the net power consumed over a full cycle?
εrms 220
Sol. (a) Irms = = 100 = 2.20A
R
(b) Pav = rmsIrms = 220 × 2.2 = 484W

(3 Marks Questions)

5. (a) For a given ac, i = im sin t, show that the average power dissipated in a resistor R
over a complete cycle is ½ i2mR. (b) A light bulb is rated at 100W for a 220V ac supply.
Calculate the resistance of the bulb.
T
W ∫0 Vidt
Sol. (a) Average power in one cycle, P = = T where current and voltage are in same
t ∫0 dt
phase across resistance R.
If i = im sint then V = Vmsint
T
Vm im ∫0 sin2 ωtdt
Hence, P = T
∫0 dt
Vm im T 1−cos2ωt
P= T
∫0 ( 2
) dt
Vm im T T
P= [∫0 dt − ∫0 cos2ωtdt]
2T
Vm im Vm im
P= [ T − 0] =
2T 2
Also, im = Vm/R
i2m R
So, P = 2
V2
(b) P = R
(220)2 220×220
100 = ⇒R= = 484.
R 100

(5 Marks Questions)

6. A resistance of 40 is connected to an ac source of 220V, 50Hz. Find (i) the rms current
(ii) the maximum instantaneous current in the resistor and (iii) the time taken by the
current to change from its maximum value to the rms value.
Sol. (i) rms = 220V, R = 40W
εrms 220
Therefore Irms = = = 5.5A
R 40
(ii) Maximum instantaneous current, I0 = √2 Irms = 1.414 × 505 = 7.8A.
(iii) Let the alternating current be given by I = I 0 sin t
Le the ac take its maximum and rms value at instants t 1 and t2 respectively. Then

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 I0 = I0 sin t1, which implies that t1 = /2 and Irms= I0/√2 = I0 sin t2, which implies that
t2 = /2 + /4. 185
π π π 1
Therefore t2 – t1 = = = = s = 2.5ms.
4ω 4×2πf 4×2π×50 400

C. CAPACITIVE CIRCUIT

(1 Mark Questions)

1. What is the impedance of a capacitor of capacitance C in an ac circuit using source of

frequency  Hz?
1 1
Sol. Impedance of a capacitor, Z =XC = ωC = 2πnC, where n is the frequency of source.

2. Define capacitive reactance. Write its SI units.

Sol. Capacitive reactance is the resistance offered by a capacitor to the flow of ac through it. It
is denoted by XC.
1
Mathematically, Xc = 2πυC where  = frequency of the source, C = capacitance of the
capacitor. Ohm () is the SI unit of capacitive reactance.

3. What is the minimum value of power factor? When does it occur?

Sol. Zero. For a purely inductive or capacitive circuit,  = ±/2. Therefore power factor, cos 
= cos (± /2) = 0.

4. How much average power, over a complete cycle, does an a.c. source supply to a
capacitor?
Sol. Pav = VrmsIrmscos (- /2) = 0.

(2 Marks Questions)

5. An ac source of emf V = V0 sin t is connected to a capacitor of capacitance C, Deduce

the expression for the current (I) flowing in it. Plot the graph of (i) V vs t, and (ii) I vs
t.
Sol. V = V0sint
C = q/V, q = CV0sint
dq d
i= = dt (CV0 sin ωt)
dt
V
= Cv0sint = 1/ωC
0
cosωt
V0 π π
i= sin (ωt + ) or I = i0sin(ωt + )
XC 2 2

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 In pure capacitive circuit current leads voltage by /2.
(i) 186

(ii)

6. What is the inductive reactance of a coil if current through it is 800mA and the voltage
across it is 40V?
εeff 40
Sol. XL = = = 50.
Ieff 800×10−3

7. A 60 µF capacitor is connected to a 110 V, 60 Hz ac supply. Determine the rms value of

the current in the circuit.
Sol. rms = 110V, f = 60Hz
1 1
Capacitive reactance, XC = = −6 = 44.2
2πfC 2×3.14×60×60×10
𝜀𝑟𝑚𝑠 110
Irms = = 44.2 = 2.49A
𝑋𝐶

D. INDUCTIVE CIRCUIT

(1 Mark Questions)

1. When an ac source is connected across an inductor, show on graph, the nature of

variation of the voltage and the current over one complete cycle.
Sol. V = V0sin t
π
I = I0(ωt − 2 )

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 187

2. Define Inductive Reactance.

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3. Draw the variation of Inductive Reactance with frequency of EMF source.

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(2 Marks Questions)

4. Prove that an ideal inductor does not dissipate power to an ac circuit.

Sol. Average power associated with an inductor: When ac is supplied to an ideal inductor,
current lags behind the voltage in phase by /2 radian. So we can write the instantaneous
π
values of voltage and current as follows: V = V==sint and I = I0sin (ωt − 2 ) =
π
−I0 sin ( 2 − ωt) = - I0 cos t
V
Work done in small time dt is dW = P dt =- V0I0 sin t cost dt = − I 0 sinωtdt
0
The average power dissipated per cycle in the inductor is
W 1 T
Pav = = T ∫0 dW
T
V T
= − I 0 ∫0 sin2ωtdt
0
V0 I0 cos2ωt T V I 4π T
=+ [ ] = 0 0 [cos t]
2T 2ω 0 4Tω T 0
V0 I0 V0 I0
= [Cos4π − cos0] = [1 − 1]
4Tω 4Tω
=0
Thus the average power dissipated per cycle in an inductor is zero.

5. A 44 mH inductor is connected to 220 V, 50 Hz ac supply. Determine the rms value of

the current in the circuit.
Sol. Here L = 44mH = 44 × 10-3H, rms = 220V, f = 50Hz

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 Reactance, XL = 2fL = 2 × 50 × 44 × 10-3 
ε
Current, Irms = rms
220
= 2π×50×44×10−3 = 15.9A 188
X L

(5 Marks Questions)

6. Show that an ideal inductor does not dissipate power in an ac circuit.

Sol.

As Pav = VrnmsIrmscos
In ideal inductor, current Irms lags behind applied voltage Vrms by /2
Therefore /2 so, Pav = VrmsIrmscos /2 or Pav = VrmsIrms × 0 or Pav = 0.

7. Show that in an ac circuit containing a pure inductor, the voltage is ahead of current by
/2 in phase.
Sol. The instantaneous ac potential difference across the ends of an inductor of inductance L
is V = V0sin t …(i)
dI V0
If I is the instantaneous current through L at instant, V = Ldt or dI = sinωtdt
L

V0 t V0 −cosωt t
Integrating both sides, I = ∫0 sinωtdt = [ ]
L L ω 0
−V0 V0 π
Or I = cosωt or I = ωL sin(ωt − 2 )
ωL
π
I = I0sin(ωt − ) …(ii)
2

V
Where I0 = ωL0 is the amplitude of the current

From equations (i) and (ii) it is clear that in an ac circuit, containing inductance, current
lags voltage by /2.

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 189
,E. SERIES LCR CIRCUIT AND RESONANCE

(1 Mark Questions)

1. The selectivity of a series LCR a.c. current is large, when

(a) L is large and R is large (b) L is small and R is small
(c) L is large and R is small (d) LR
Sol. (c)

2. The power factor of a series LCR circuit at resonance will be

(a) 1 (b) 0 (c) ½ (d) 1/√2
Sol. (a)

3. Answer the following questions. [1 mark each]

(a) In any ac circuit, is the applied instantaneous voltage equal to the algebraic sum of the
instantaneous voltages across the series elements of the circuit? Is the same true for rms
voltage?
Sol. (i) Yes, because the voltage variations across each element will follow the variations of
the supply voltage oat all instants. (ii) No, the same is not true for rms voltage because
voltages across different elements may not be in phase.

(b) A capacitor is used in the primary circuit of an induction coil.

Sol. When the primary circuit of the induction coil is broken, high voltage is induced which
gets used in charging the capacitor. This avoids sparking in the circuit.

(c) An applied voltage signal consists of a superposition of a dc voltage and an ac voltage

of high frequency. The circuit consists of an inductor and a capacitor in series. Show that
the dc signal will appear across C and the ac signal across L.
Sol. Inductive reactance, XL = 2fL i.e. XL ∝ f
Conductive reactance XC = 1/2fC i.e. XC = 1/F
For dc, f = 0, reactance of L is zero and that of C is infinite, so the dc signal appears
across C. For high frequency ac, reactance of L is high and that of C is low. So the ac
signal appears across L.

(d) A choke coil in series with a lamp is connected to a dc line. The lamp is seen to shine
brightly. Insertion of an iron core in the choke causes no change in the lamp’s brightness.
Predict the corresponding observations if the connection is to an ac line.
Sol. For a dc, XL = 0. Inductance L has no effect even if it is increased by inserting iron core.
But for ac, the lamp will shine dimly because of the impedance offered by the choke.
When the iron core is inserted, impedance of the choke further increases and the lamp
will dim further.

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 (e) Why is choke coil needed in the use of fluorescent tubes with ac mains? Why can we 190
not use an ordinary resistor instead of the choke coil?
Sol. If a fluorescent tube is connected directly across a 220V source, it would draw large
current which would damage the tube. With the use of choke coil, the voltage is reduced
to an appropriate value, without wasting any power. A resistor would waste a large
amount of electrical energy as heat. So an ordinary resistor cannot be used instead of a
choke coil.

(2 Marks Questions)

4. Explain the term ‘sharpness of resonance’ in ac circuit.

Sol. Sharpness of resonance: It is defined as the ratio of the voltage developed across the
inductance (L) or capacitor (C) at resonance to the voltage developed across the
resistance (R).
1 L
Q = R √C
It may also be defined as the ratio o resonant angular frequency to the bandwidth of the
circuit.

5. A capacitor, ‘C’, a variable resistor ‘R’ and a bulb ‘B’ are connected in series to the ac
mains in circuits as shown. The bulb glows with some brightness.

How will the glow of the bulb change if (i) a dielectric slab is introduced between the
plates of the capacitor, keeping resistance R to be the same; (ii) the resistance R is
increased keeping the same capacitance?
1
Sol. For the RC circuit, Impedance, Z = √R2 + (ωC)2 ,
ε0
Current I = …(i)
Z
(i) When a dielectric slab is introduced between the plates of the capacitor, its
capacitance increases. Hence, from equation (i), impedance of the circuit is decreased and
the current through it is increased. So, brightness of the bulb will increase.
(ii) When the resistance R is increased and capacitance is same, then from equation (i),
impedance of the circuit is increased and the current flowing through it is decreased. SO
brightness of the bulb will decrease.

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6. The figure shows a series LCR circuit connected to a variable frequency 200V source 191
with L = 50mH, C = 80 F and R = 40. Determine

(i) the source frequency which derives the circuit in resonance; (ii) the quality factor (Q)
of the circuit.
Sol. (i) L = 50 × 10-3 H, C = 80 × 10-6F, R = 40,
1 1
= = √50×10−3
√LC ×80×10=6
103 500
= = 500 rad s −1 = υ = = 80Hz
2 2π
1 L 1 50×10−3 1
(ii) Q = R √C = 40 √80×10−6 = 40 × √625 = 0.625

7. A series LCR circuit is connected to an ac source (200V, 50Hz). The voltages across the
resistor, capacitor and inductor are respectively 200V, 250V and 250V.
(i) The algebraic sum of the voltages across the three elements is greater than the voltage
of the source. How is this paradox resolved? (ii) Given the value of the resistance of R is
40, calculate the current in the circuit.
Sol. (i)

From the parameter, VR = 200V, VL = 250V and VC = 250V

Vef should be given as V eff = VR + VL + VC = 200V + 250V + 250V = 700V
However Veff > 200V of the ac source. This paradox can be solved only using phasor
diagram as given below:

(Veff) = √VR2 + (VL − VC )2

Since VL = VC
(ii) Given R = 40, so current in the LCR circuit,

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 Veff 200
Ieff = = = 5A [XL = XC or Z = R]
R 40 192

8. In a series LCR circuit, VL = VC ≠ VR. What is the value of power factor for this circuit?
R
Sol. Power factor, cos  = Z
Since VL = VC ⇒ XL = XC , so, Z = R ⇒ cos  = 1

9. Voltage across L and C in series are 180° out of phase. Comment.

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10. The hot wire ammeter in Fig (a) shows some deflection but not in fig (b). Why?

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11. Obtain the resonant frequency ωr of a series LCR circuit with L = 2.0H, C = 32 µF and R
= 10 Ω. What is the Q-value of this circuit?
Sol. Here L = 2.0H, C = 32F = 32 × 10-6F, R = 10.
1 1 1000
Resonant frequency, r= = −6
= = 125 rad s-1
√𝐿𝐶 √2.0×32×10 8
𝜔𝐿 125×2.0
Q value= = = 25
𝑅 10

12. A charged 30 µF capacitor is connected to a 27 mH inductor. What is the angular

frequency of free oscillations of the circuit?
Sol. Here C = 30 × 10-6F, L = 27 × 10-3H
The angular frequency of free oscillations of the LC circuit is
1 1 1
= = √27×10−3 −6
= 9 × 104 rad s-1 = 1.1 × 103 rad s-1
√𝐿𝐶 ×30×10

13. Suppose the initial charge on the capacitor in Question 12 is 6 C. What is the total
energy stored in the circuit initially? What is the total energy at a later time?

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Sol. Here C = 30 × 10-6F, q0 = 6 × 10-3C
Total energy stored in the inductor initially, 193
1 𝑞02 1 (6×10−3)2 36
U= 𝑈𝐸𝑚𝑎𝑥 =2 = 2. = 60 = 0.6J
𝐶 30×10−6

(3 Marks Questions)

14. (i) When an AC source is connected to an ideal inductor show that the average power
supplied by the source over a complete cycle is zero.
(ii) A lamp is connected in series with an inductor and an AC source. What happen in the
brightness of the lamp when the key is plugged in and an iron rod is inserted inside the
inductor? Explain.

Sol. (i) As Pav = VrnmsIrmscos

In ideal inductor, current Irms lags behind applied voltage Vrms by /2
Therefore /2 so, Pav = VrmsIrmscos /2 or Pav = VrmsIrms × 0 or Pav = 0.
(ii) Brightness of the lamp decreases. It is because when iron rod is inserted inside the
inductor, its inductance L increases, thereby increasing its inductive resistance X L and
hence impedance Z of the circuit. As I rms = Vrms/Z, so this decreases the current Irms. In
the circuit and hence the brightness of the lamp.

15. A resistor R and an inductor L are connected in series to a source V = V 0sin t. Find the
(a) peak value of the voltage drops across R and across L. (b) phase difference between
the applied voltage and current. Which of them is ahead?
Sol. (a) (i) Peak voltage across R, VR = I0R.
V0
VR = R
√R2 +X2L

V0 X L
(ii) Peak value across L, VL =
√R2 +X2L

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 (b)
194

V X
Phase difference  = tan-1(VL ) = tan-1 ( RL )
R

16. The figure shows a series LCR circuit with L = 10.0H, C = 40 F, R = 60 connected to
a variable frequency 240V source, calculate (i) the angular frequency of the source which
derives the circuit at resonance. (ii) the current at the resonating frequency, (iii) the rms
potential drop across the inductor at resonance.

Sol. Here L = 10.0Hm, C = 40 F = 40 × 10-6F, R = 60, Vrms = 240V

1 1
(i) At resonance the angular frequency v of the source is r = = 2×10−2 =
√(10.0)(40×10−6 )
50 rads-1.
(ii) At resonating frequency, Impedance Z = R ( since XL = XC)
The rms current at resonance
Vrms Vrms 240V
Therefore Irms = = = = 4A
Z R 60Ω
(iii) The inductive reactance is XL = rL = 50×10.0 = 500. The rms potential drop
across inductor at resonace, (Vrms)L = Irms × XL = (4A)(500) = 2000V
17. A voltage V = V0sint is applied to a series LCR circuit. Derive the expression for the
average power dissipated over a cycle. Under what condition is (i) no power dissipated
even though the current flows through the circuit (ii) maximum power dissipated in the
circuit?
Sol. The rate at which electric energy in consumed in an electric circuit is called its power.
Suppose in an ac circuit, voltage and current are having a phase difference .
V = V0sin t, I = I0sin(t – )
Work done by source of emnf in a small time dt with negligible change in current,
dW = Vidt
dW = V0I0sint sin(t – )dt where sin(t – ) = sin t cos – cos t sin.
dW = V0I0[sin2wt cosf – sint cos t sin]dt
2−cos2ωt sin2ωt
dW = V0I0 [( ) cosϕ − sinϕ] dt
2 2

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 V0 I0 T T
Now total work done in a complete cycle W = × [∫0 cosϕdt − cosϕ ∫0 cos2ωtdt −
T
2 195
sinϕ ∫0 sin2ωtdt]
T T
We can solve ∫0 cos2ωtdt = ∫0 sin2ωtdt =0
V I T V I
W = 02 0 ∫0 cosϕdt = 20 02 cosϕT
√ √
Thus power consumed over a cycle, P = W/T = VrmsIrms cos
(i) Minimum power: IN an ac circuit containing pure L only, current I lags behind the
applied voltage V by phase angle /2. So average power consumed by pure inductor L in
complete cycle of ac is then given by, P = VrmsIrmscos /2 = 0.
(ii) Maximum power: IN ac circuit containing R only, both applied voltage V and current
I are in same phase, os average power consumed by resistor R in complete cycle is then
V2rms
given by P = VrmsIrmscos0° = VrmsIrms or P =
R

18. A bulb of resistance 10 connected to an inductor of inductance L, is in series with an ac

source marked 100V, 50Hz. If the phase angle between the voltage and current is /4
radian, calculate the value of L.
Sol. Here R = 10, f = 50Hz,  = /4 rad
XL 2πfL
As tan  = =
R R
Rtanϕ 10×tanπ/4
Therefore L = = 2×3.142×50 = 0.0318H.
2πf

19. A circuit of a resistance of 10 and a capacitance of 0.1 F. If an alternating emf of
100V, 50Hz is applied, find the current in the circuit.
1 1
Sol. XC = 2πfC = 2×3.14×50×0.1×10−6 = 3.2×104.
Z = √R2 + XC2 = √100 + 10.24 × 108 = 3.2×104.
εrms 100
Irms = = 3.2×104 = 3.14 × 10-3A = 3.14 mA
Z

20. A resistor of 50 ohm, an inductor of (20/) H and a capacitor of (5/)F are connected in
series to a voltage source 230V, 50Hz. Find the impedance of the circuit.
20 5 5
Sol. Here R = 50, L = H, C = π F, F = π ×10-6F, eff = 230V, f = 50HZ
π
20
XL = 2f = ×2××50 = 2000
π
1 1
XC = C×2πf = 5 = 2000
×10−6×2×𝜋×50
π

Z = √R2 + (XL − XC )2 = √(50)2 + (2000 − 2000)2 = √2500 = 50.

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 196
21. Figure (a), (b) and (c) show three a.c. circuits in which equal currents are flowing. If the
frequency of emf be increased, how will the current be affected in these circuits? Give
reasons for your answer.

Sol. (a) R is not affected by frequency. So current does not change on increasing f.
(b) Inductive reactance, XL = 2 fL. When the frequency f is increased, XL increases and
hence current in the circuit decreases.
1
(c) Capacitive reactance XC = 2πfC. As the frequency f increased, XC decreases and hence
current in the circuit increases.

22. In the circuit shown in fig, R represents an electric bulb. If the frequency of the supply is
doubled, how should the values of C and L be changed so that the glow in the bulb
remains unchanged?

Sol. Current in the LCR circuit is given by

εeff
Ieff = 2
√R2 +(2πfL− 1 )
2πfC

When the frequency f of the supply is doubled, both the values of L and C should be
1
halved, so that the resistance (2πfL − 2πfC ) remains unchanged and hence current n the
circuit remains the same. Then the glow of the bulbs will remain unchanged.

23. An inductor ‘L’ of reactance XL is connected in series with a bulb ‘B’ to an a.c. source as
shown in figure.

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 Briefly explain how does the brightness of the bulb change, when (i) number of turns of
the inductor is reduced and (ii) a capacitor of reactance X C = XL is included in series in 197
the same circuit.
Sol. (i) When the number of turns in the inductor is reduced, its resistance X L decreases. The
current in the circuit increases and hence brightness of the bulb increases.
(ii) With capacitor of reactance XC = XL the impedance Z = √R2 + (XL − XC )2 = R
becomes minimum. The current in the circuit becomes maximum. The bulb glows with
maximum brightness.

24. A series LCR circuit with R = 20 Ω, L = 1.5 H and C = 35 µF is connected to a variable-

frequency 200 V ac supply. When the frequency of the supply equals the natural
frequency of the circuit, what is the average power transferred to the circuit in one
complete cycle?
Sol. When the frequency of the ac source equals the natural frequency of the circuit, the
impedance is Z = R = 20
ε2rms ε2rms (200)2
The average power dissipated per cycle, Pav = = = = 2000W.
Z R 20

25. A radio can tune over the frequency range of a portion of MW broadcast band: (800 kHz
to 1200 kHz). If its LC circuit has an effective inductance of 200 µH, what must be the
range of its variable capacitor?
Sol. For tuning, the frequency of free LC oscillations should be equal to the frequency of the
1 1
radio-wave. The value of this frequency is f = 2𝜋√𝐿𝐶 𝑜𝑟 𝐶 = 4𝜋2 𝑓2 𝐿
(i) For f = 800 kHz = 800 × 103Hz
1
C = 4𝜋2 ×(800×103 )2×200×10−6 = 197.8 × 10-12F = 198pF [since 1pF = 10-12F]
(ii) For f = 1200 kHz = 1200 × 103 Hz
1
C = 4𝜋2 ×(1200×103 )2 ×200×10−6 = 87.9 × 10-12F = 88pF
Thus the variable capacitor should have a range of about 88pF to 198pF.

26. A coil of inductance 0.50 H and resistance 100 Ω is connected to a 240 V. 50 Hz ac

supply.
(a) What is the maximum current in the coil?
(b) What is the time lag between the voltage maximum and the current maximum?
𝐕 𝛚𝐋
Sol. For an LR circuit, if V = V0 cos t, then I = 𝟐 𝟐 𝟐 𝐜𝐨𝐬(𝛚𝐭 − 𝛟) where tan  = 𝐑 .
√𝐑 +𝛚 𝐋

𝐕𝟎 𝐕𝟎
(a) Maximum current in the coil is I0 = =
√𝐑𝟐 +𝛚𝟐 𝐋𝟐 √𝐑𝟐 +𝟒𝛑𝟐 𝐟 𝟐 𝐋𝟐

Given L = 0.50H, R = 100, Veff = 240V and f = 50 Hz

√2×240
So, I0 = 𝐴 [Since Veff = V0/√2)
√1002 +4𝜋2 +(50)2×(0.50)2
1.414×240 1.414×240
= = = 1.82A
√10000+24674 186.2

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 𝜙
(b) V is maximum at t = 0, I is maximum at t = 𝜔 (i.e when t –  = 0). If  is positive,
198
this means current maximum lags behind voltage maximum by time lag,
𝜙
𝛥𝑡 =
𝜔
2𝜋𝑓𝐿 2𝜋×50×0.5
Now tan  = = = 1.571
𝑅 100
57.5𝜋
Therefore  = tan-1(1.571) = 57.5° = rad
180
𝜙 57.5𝜋
Time lag, 𝛥𝑡 = 𝜔 = 180×2𝜋×50 𝑠 = 3.19 × 10-3s = 3.2 ms.

27. Obtain the answers (a) and (b) in Q. 26, if the circuit is connected to a high frequency
supply (240 V, 10 kHz). Hence, explain the statement that at very high frequency, an
inductor in a circuit nearly amounts to an open circuit. How does an inductor behave in a
dc circuit after the steady state?
Sol. Here f = 10kHz = 104Hz,  = 2f = 2 × 104 rad s-1 , rms = 240V
ε0 √2×240
I0 = = √104 = 1.08×10-2A.
√𝐑𝟐 +𝛚𝟐 𝐋𝟐 ×4π2 ×108 ×0.52
Here the contribution of resistance R is negligible as compared to the reactance L.
ωL 2π×104 ×0.5
Also, tan  = R = = 100 which is very large. So  is nearly equal to /2 rad.
100
Thus we see that I0= is much smaller (1.08×10-2 A) than its value (1.82A) at high frequency. At high
frequency, L nearly amounts to an open circuit, i.e., it offers very large resistance. In an dc
circuit (after attaining steady state)  = 0, so I, acts like a pure conductor.

28. A 100 μF capacitor in series with a 40  resistance is connected to a 110 V, 60 Hz supply.

(a) What is the maximum current in the circuit?
(b) What is the time lag between the current maximum and the voltage maximum?
𝐕𝟎 𝟏
Sol. For a CR circuit, if V = V0 cos t, then I = 𝐜𝐨𝐬(𝛚𝐭 + 𝛟) where tan  =
𝟏 𝛚𝐂𝐑
√𝐑𝟐 + 𝟐 𝟐
𝛚 𝐂
Here Veff = 110V,  = 2f = 2 × 60 rad s-1, R = 40, C = 100F = 10-4F
𝐕𝟎 √𝟐𝐕𝐞𝐟𝐟 𝟏.𝟒𝟒×𝟏𝟎
(a) Maximum current in the circuit is I0 = 𝟏
= 𝟏
= 𝟏
√𝐑𝟐 + 𝟐 𝟐 √𝐑𝟐 + 𝟐 𝟐 √𝟒𝟎𝟐 +
𝛚 𝐂 𝛚 𝐂 (𝟐𝛑×𝟔𝟎×𝟏𝟎−𝟒)𝟐
1.414×110 155.54
= = = 3.24A
√1600+703.62 45
1 1
(b) The phase angle  is given by tan  = ωCR = 2π×60×10−4×40 = 0.6631
33.5π
Therefore  = 33.5° = rad
180
𝜙 33.5π
Time lag, 𝛥𝑡 = 𝜔 = 180×2π×60 = 1.55 × 10-3 = 1.55 ms
Hence the voltage lags behind the current or the current leads the voltage.

29. Obtain the answer to (a) and (b) in Q.28 if the circuit is connected to a 110 V, 12 kHz
supply? Hence, explain the statement that a capacitor is a conductor at very high
frequencies. Compare this behaviour with that of a capacitor in a dc circuit after the steady
state.
Sol. Here R = 40, C = 100F = 10-4 F, rms = 110V, f = 12 kHz = 12 × 103Hz

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 1 1
(a) Xc = 2πfC = 2π×12×103 ×10−4 = 0.133Ω
εrms 110 199
Irms = = = 2.75A
√R2 +X2C √402 +(0.133)2

Therefore I0 = √2 Irms = 1.414×2.75= 3.89A

X 0.133
(b) tan  = RC = 40 = 0.0033
Or  = 0.2° = 0°
ε 110
Now in the absence of capacitor, Irms = rms = 40 = 2.75A
𝑅
Hence at very high frequency (12 kHz) the current in the circuit is same both in the
presence or absence of the capacitor. It follows that at high frequency capacitor acts like a
conductor.
1
For a dc supply, f = 0, so XC = 2πfC = ∞
Hence in dc circuit, a capacitor amounts to an open circuit, i.e. it offers a very high
resistance.

(5 Marks Questions)

30. The variation of inductive resistance (XL) of an inductor with the frequency (f) of the ac
source of 100V and variable frequency is shown in the fig.

(i) Calculate the self inductance of the inductor.

(ii) When this inductor is used in series with a capacitor of unknown value and a resistor
of 10 at 300s-1, maximum power dissipation occurs in the circuit. Calculate the
capacitance of the capacitor.
Sol. (i) We know that XL = L = 2fL
L X 20
⇒ L = 2πF = 2×3.14×100 \= 0.0318H = 31.8 mH
(ii) For maximum power dissipation, XL = XC
1 1
2fl = 2πfc ⇒ 2 × 3.14 × 300 × 31.8 × 10−3 = 2×3.14×300𝐶
⇒ C = 8.8 × 10-6 F = 8.8F.

31. (a) What do you understand by ‘sharpness of resonance’ for a series LCR resonant
circuit? How it is related with the quality factor ‘Q’ of the circuit? Using the graphs given

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 in the diagram, explain the factors which affect it. For which graph is the resistance (R)
minimum? 200

(b) A 2F capacitor, 100 resistor and 8H inductor are connected in series with an ac
source. Find the frequency of the ac source for which the current drawn in the circuit is
maximum. If the peak value of emf of the source is 200V, calculate the (i) maximum
current and, (ii) inductive and capacitive resistance of the circuit at resonance.
Sol. (a) Sharpness of resonance: It is defined as the ratio of the voltage developed across the
inductance (L) or capacitor (C) at resonance to the voltage developed across the
resistance (R).
1 L
Q= √
R C
It may also be defined as the ratio o resonant angular frequency to the bandwidth of the
circuit.
Circuit becomes more selective of the resonance is more sharp, maximum current is
more, the circuit is close to resonance for smaller range of (2) of frequencies. Thus the
tuning of the circuit will be good.
Figure shows the variation of im with  in a LCR series circuit for tow values of resistnce
R1 and R2 (R1 > R2).

1 1
The condition for resonance in the LCR circuit is XL = XC ⇒ 0L = ω ⇒ ω0 =
0C √LC
When see that the current amplitude is maximum at the resonant frequency, Since im =
Vm/R at resonance, the current amplitude for case R2 is sharper to that for case R1.
Quality factor or simply the Q factor of resonant LCR circuit is defined as the ratio of
voltage drop across the resistance at resonance.

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 V ωL 1 L
Q = VL = . Thus finally Q = R √C 201
R R
The Q factor determines the sharpness at resonance as for higher value of Q factor the
tuning of the circuit and its sensitivity to accept resonating frequency signals will be
much higher. At resonance, current in an ac series LCR circuit is maximum, and depends
only on the ohmic resistance R of the circuit. Thus if the ohmic resistance R of series
LCR circuit is low, then large current flows in circuit at resonance. So graph C i.e.,
resistance R1 has minimum value.
(b) To draw maximum current from a series LCR circuit, the circuit at particular
frequency XL = XC.
1
The frequency of the series will be  = = 39.80 Hz
2×3.14√8×2×10−6
This frequency is known as the seris resonance frequency.
(i) I0 = E0/R = 200/100 = 2A
(ii) Inductive reactance XL = L = 2L = 2×3.14×39.80×8 = 2000
1 1 1
Capacitive reactance, XC = ωC = 2πυC = 2×3.14×39.80×2×10−6 = 2000

32. Explain (i) Resistance (ii) Reactance and (iii) Impedance (iv) Admittance.
Sol (i) Resistance: The property due to which a conductor resists the flow of electrons
through it, is called ersistance of the conductor. It is measured by the ratio of potential
difference between the ends of the conductor to the current flowing through it. If an
alternating current is passed through a resistor, the current and voltage are in the same
phase.
(ii) Reactance: The opposition offered by an inductor or a capacitor or both to the flow of
ac through it, is called reactance. It is of two types:
1 1 1
(a) Capacitive reactance (XC): XC = ωC = 2πυC ⇒ X C ∝ υ
(b) Inductive reactance (XL): XL = L = L [Here  - frequency of ac, L – inductance
of the inductor]
So, XL ∝ 
(iii) Impedance: The total opposition offered by LCR circuit to the flow of alternating
current is called impedance. It is denoted by Z and is given by Z = √R2 + (XL − XC )2
The impedance of an ac circuit plays the same role as resistance in dc circuit.
(iv) Admittance: Admittance is a measure of how easily a circuit or device will allow a
current to flow. It is defined as the reciprocal of impedance, analogous to
how conductance & resistance are defined. The SI unit of admittance is
the siemens (symbol S)

33. A resistance of 2ohms, a coil of inductance 0.01H are connected in series with a
capacitor, and put across a 200volt, 50Hz supply. Calculate: (i) the capacitance of the

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 capacitor so that the circuit resonates. (ii) the current and voltage across the capacitor at
resonance (take  = 3) 202
Sol. Here R = 2, L = 0.01H, eff = 200V, f = 50 Hz
1
(i) Resonance frequency, f = 2π√LC
1 1 1 1
So, C = 4π2 f2 L = 4×(3)2 ×(50)2×(0.01) = 4×9×2500×0.01 = 900
= 0.0011F = 11 × 10-4F.
εeff 200
(ii) Ieff = = = 100A
R 2
1 1 100×104
Therefore, VC = Ieff XC = Ieff2πfC = 2×3×50×11×10−4 = = 303.03V
3300

34. An inductor 200mH, capacitor 500 F, resistor 10 are connected in series with a 100V,
variable frequency a.c. source. Calculate the (i) frequency at which the power factor of
the circuit is unity. (ii) current amplitude at this frequency, (iii) Q factor.
Sol. (i) Power dissipated will be unity at resonance, because then Z = R and cos  = R/Z = 1
1 1 1 50
Therefore fr = 2π√LC = Hz = 2π×10−2 = Hz
2𝜋√200×10−3 ×500×10−6 π
ε0 √2εrms 1.414×100
(ii) I0 = = = = 14.14A
R R 10
1 L 1 200×10−3 20
(iii) Q factor = R √C = 10 √500×10−6 = 10 = 2

35. (i) Draw the graphs showing variation of inductive reactance and capacitive reactance
with frequency of applied ac source (ii) Can the voltage drop across the inductor or the
capacitor in a series LCR circuit be greater than the applied voltage of the a.c. source?
Justify your answer.
Sol. (i) Inductive reactance XL = 2f L i.e., XL ∝ f. As shown in figure (a), graph of X L
against f is a straight line with a positive slope. As f increases, X L also increases.

1
Capacitive reactance, XC = 2πfC i.e. Xc ∝ 1/f
Figure (b) show the variation of XC with f. As f increases, Xc decreases.

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 (ii) Yes the voltage drop across the inductor or the capacitor in a series circuit can be
greater than the applied voltage. These two voltages ae not in same phase, hence they 203
cannot be added like ordinary numbers.

36. Derive an expression for the impedance of an ac circuit with an inductor L and a resistor
R in series. Also obtain the expression for average power in the circuit.
Sol. AC circuit containing L and R in series: As shown in figure, consider a resistance R and
inductance L connected in series to a source of alternating emf  given by  = 0sint.

Let I be the current through the series circuit at any instant. Then
1. Voltage V ⃗ R = RI across the resistance R will be in phase with current I. So phasors V
⃗R
and I are in same direction. The amplitude of ⃗VR is V0R = I0 R
2. Voltage V⃗ L = XLI across the inductance L is ahead of current I in phase by /2 rad. So
phasor ⃗VL lies /2 rad anticlockwise w.r.t. the phasor I. Its amplitude is V0L = I0 XL where
XL is the inductive reactance.
By parallelogram law of vector addition, V⃗ R+ V⃗ L= ε
Using Pythagorean theorem, we get ε20 = (V0R )2 + (V0L )2 − (I0 R)2 + (I0 XL )2 = I02 (R2 +
XL2 )
ε0
Or I0 =
√R2 +X2L

Clearly, √R2 + XL2 is the effective resitane of the series LR circuit which opposes or
impedes the flow of ac through it. It is called impedance and is denoted by Z. Thus
Z = √R2 + XL2 = √R2 + ω2 L2 [since XL = L]
The phase angle  between the resultant voltage and current is given by
VL I0 X L XL ωL
tan  = VR0 = = =
0 I0 R R R
It is obvious from the phasor diagram that the current lags behind the emf of phase angle
 so the instantaneous value of current is given by I = I 0sin (t – ).
R R
Pav = rms.Irms Z = rms.Irms.√R2 .
+ω2 L2

37. A series LCR circuit is connected to an ac source having voltage V = V msin t. Derive
the expression for the instantaneous current I and its phase relationship to the applied
voltage. Obtain the condition for resonance to occur. Define ‘power factor’. State the
conditions under which it is (i) maximum and (ii) minimum.

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 _______________________________________________________________________
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38. Figure below shows a series LCR circuit connected to a variable frequency 230 V source.
L = 5.0 H, C = 80µF, R = 40 Ω.

(a) Determine the source frequency which drives the circuit in resonance.
(b) Obtain the impedance of the circuit and the amplitude of current at the resonating
frequency.
(c) Determine the RMS potential drops across the three elements of the circuit. Show that
the potential drop across the LC combination is zero at the resonating frequency.
[Ans. (a)50 rad s-1,(b) 40, 8.1A, (c) 230V]
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39. An LC circuit contains a 20 mH inductor and a 50 μF capacitor with initial charge of 10

mC. The resistance of the circuit in negligible. Let the instant the circuit is closed be t = 0.
(a) What is the total energy stored initially? Is it conserved during LC oscillations?
(b) What is the natural frequency of the circuit?
(c) At what time is the energy stored

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  completely electrical (i.e., stored in the capacitor)?
 completely magnetic (i.e., stored in the inductor)? 205
(d) At what times is the total energy shared equally between the inductor and capacitor?
(e) If a resistor is inserted in the circuit, how much energy is eventually dissipated as heat?
Sol. Her L = 20mH = 20 × 10-3H, C = 50F = 50 × 10-6F, Initial charge on capacitor, q0 =
10mC = 10 × 10-3-C
q2 (10−2 )2
(a) Total energy stored initially= 2C0 = 2×50×10−6 J = 1J
Yes, the total energy is conserved in LC oscillations because the resistance of the LC
circuit is negligible.
1 1
(b) The natural frequency of the circuit is f = 2π√LC = −3 −6
Hz
2×3.14×√20×10 ×50×10
1
Or f = 2×3.14×10−3 = 159.2 = 159 Hz.
(c) The charge of a capacitor at any instant during LC oscillations is q = q0 cos t = q0 cos
2πt
T
(i) The energy stored wil be completely electrical when
q = ± q0
2πt
or cos T = ±1
2πt
or = n, where n is an integer
T
n T 3T
or t = 2 T or t = 0, 2 , T, 2 , …
(ii) The energy stored is completely magnetic when the electrical energy is zero or when q
2πt
= q0cos t = q0cos T = 0
2πt
Or = (2n+1) /2
T
T T 3T 5T
Or t = (2n +1) 4 or t = 4 , 4 , 4 , …
In both cases, T = 1/f = 1/159s = 6.28 ×= 6.3ms.
1 q2
(d) Total energy = 2 C0 .
Let q be the charge on the capacitor at the instants when the energy of capacitor becomes
1 q2
half of the total energy. At these instants energy of the capacitor = 2 C
1 q2 1 1 q20 q0
∴2 = ( ) or q = ± √2
C 2 2 C
2πt
But q = q0 cos t = q0cos T
q 2πt
∴ ± √20 = q0cos T
2πt 1 π π 3π
Or cos = ± √2 = ±cos 4 = cos 4 or cos
T 4
2πt π 3π
Or = n + ( 4 or )
T 4
T T
Or t = (4 +1) 8 or (4 + 3) 8
T 3T 5T 7T
Or t = 8 , 8 , 8 , 8 , …
(e) R camps out the LC oscillations eventually. The whole of the initial energy = 1J is
finally lost as heat.

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40. A circuit containing a 80 mH inductor and a 60 μF capacitor in series is connected to a 230
V, 50 Hz supply. The resistance of the circuit is negligible. 206
(a) Obtain the current amplitude and rms values.
(b) Obtain the rms values of potential drops across each element.
(c) What is the average power transferred to the inductor?
(d) What is the average power transferred to the capacitor.
(e) What is the total average power absorbed by the circuit? [‘Average ’implies’ averaged
over one cycle’].
Sol. Here L = 80mH = 80 × 10-3H, C = 60F = 60 × 10-6F, Vrms = 230V, f = 50 Hz
𝟏 𝟏
(a) Reactance of the circuit = |𝛚𝐋 − | = |𝟐𝛑𝐟𝐋 − |
𝛚𝐂 𝟐𝛑𝐟𝐂
−3 1
= |2π × 50 × 80 × 10 − 2π×50×60×10−6|
= |25.13 – 53.05| = 27.92
Vrms 230
Irms = Reactance = 27.92 A = 8.24A
Current amplitude, I0 = √2 Irms = 1.414 × 8.24 = 11.653 = 11.7A
L
(b) Potential drop across L is Vrms = Irms × L = 8.24×25.13 = 207V
C
Potential drop across C isVrms = Irms × 1/C = 8.24 × 53.05 = 437V
(c) In an inductor voltage leads the current by /2, therefore average power transferred to
the inductor per cycle is Pav = VrmsIrms cos /2 =0
(d) In the capacitor, voltage lags behind the current by /2, therefore, average power
π
transferred to the capacitor per cycle is Pav = VrmsIrms cos(− 2 ) = 0
(e) Total average poer absorbed = 0.

41. Suppose the circuit in previous question has a resistance of 15 Ω. Obtain the average
power transferred to each element of the circuit and the total power absorbed.
Sol. Here R = 15,
1 2
Therefore Impedance, Z = √R2 + (ωL − ωC)
1 2
= √152 + (2π × 50 × 80 × 10−3 − 2π×50×60×10−6 )
= √225 + 779.5 = √1004.5= 31.7
V 230
Therefore Irms = rms = 31.7 = 7.255A
Z
π
Average power transferred to L = VeffIeff cos 2 = 0
π
Average power transferred to C = VeffIeffcos(− 2 ) = 0
2
Average power transferred to R = Irms = (7.255)2 × 15 = 789.5W

F. TRANSFORMER

(1 Mark Questions)

1. Laminated iron sheets are used to minimize ______ currents in the core of a transformer.
Ans. Laminated iron sheets are used to minimize eddy currents in the core of a transformer.

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2. What is the function of a step up transformer?
Sol. A step up transformer is used to convert a low voltage at high current into a high voltage 207
at low current.

3. The output of a step-down transformer is measured to be 24 V when connected to a 12

watt light bulb. The value of the peak current is
(a) 1/ 2 A. (b) 2 A. (c) 2 A. (d) 2 2 A
Sol. (a)
As given that, secondary voltage (VS) is VS = 24 volt
Power associated with secondary is PS = 12 watt
As we know that PS = VSIS
IS = PS/VS = 12/24 = ½ A = 0.5 Amp
Peak value of the current in the secondary
I0 = IS√2 = 0.5√2 = 5/10. √2 [I0 = 1/√2 Amp]

(2 Marks Questions)

4. State the underlying principle of a transformer. How is the large scale transmission of
electric energy over long distances done with the use of transformers?
Sol. A transformer is based on principle of mutual induction which states that due to
continuous change in the current in the primary coil, an emf gets induced across the
secondary coil.
Electric power generated at the power station is stepped up to very high voltages by
means of a step up transformer and transmitted to a distinct place. At receiving end, it is
stepped down by a step down transformer.

5. A transformer has 300 primary turns and 2400 secondary turns. If the primary supply
voltage is 230V, what is the secondary voltage?
N 2400
Sol. 2 = N2 . ε1 = × 230 = 1840V = 1.84kV.
1 300

6. What are the various energy losses in a transformer? How can they be reduced?
Sol. The main causes for energy loss in transformers are as follows:
1. Copper loss: Some energy is lost due to heating of copper wires used in the primary
and secondary windings. The power loss (= I2R) can be minimized by using thick copper
wires of low resistance.
2. Eddy current loss: The alternating magnetic flux induces eddy currents in the iron core
which leads to some energy loss in the form of heat. Thus loss can be reduced by using
laminated iron core.

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 3. Hysteresis loss: The alternating current carries the iron core through cycles of
magnetization and demagnetization. Work is done in each of these cycles and is lost as 208
heat. This is called hysteresis loss and can be minimized by using core material having
narrow hysteresis loop.
4. Flux leakage: The magnetic flux produced by the primary may not fully pass through
the secondary. Some of the flux may leak into air. This los can be minimized by winding
the primary and secondary coils over one another.
5. Humming loss: As the transformer works, the core lengthens and shortens each cycle
of the alternating voltage due to a phenomenon called magnetostriction. This gives rise to
a humming sound. So, some of the electrical energy is lost in the form of humming
sound.

(3 Marks Questions)

7. Give two disadvantages of transmitting a.c. over long distances at low voltage and high
current.
Sol. Following are the two disadvantages of transmitting electrical power at low voltage:
(1) Large lengths of transmission cables have sufficient resistance. Hence a large amount
of energy (I2Rt) will be lost as heat during transmission.
(2) Large voltage drop (IR) occurs along the line wire. Hence the voltage at the receiving
station will be much smaller than that at the generating station.

8. A power transmission line feeds input power at 2300 V to a step down transformer with
its primary windings having 4000 turns. What should be the number of turns in the
secondary in order to get output power at 230 V?
Sol. Here 1 = 2300V, N1 = 4000, 2 = 230V, N2 = ?
ε N
As ε2 = N2
1 1
ε 230
Therefore, N2 = N1ε2 = 4000 × 2300 = 400 turns
1

9. At a hydroelectric power plant, the water pressure head is at a height of 300 m and the
water flow available is 100 m3s-1. If the turbine generator efficiency is 60%, estimate the
electric power available from the plant (g = 9.8 ms -2).
Work force×distance
Sol. Hydroelectric power = Time = = Pressure × area × velocity
Time
=hg×A×v=hg×
Where  = Av = volume of wter flowing per second across a cross section.
Electric power available = 60% of total hydroelectric power = 0.6 hg
= 0.6×300×103×9.8×100W = 176.4×106W = 176 MW

(5 Marks Questions)

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10. With the help of a labeled diagram, explain the working of a step up transformer. Give
reasons to explain the following: (i) the core of the transformers is laminated (ii) thick 209
copper wire is used in windings.
Sol.

Step up transformer (or transformer) is based on the principle of mutual induction.

An alternating potential (Vp) when applied to the primary coil induced an emf in it.
dϕ
p = - Np dt
dϕ
If resistance of primary coil is low, Vp = p, i.e Vp = - Np dt
At the same flux is linked with the secondary coil with the help of soft iron core due to
mutual induction, emf is induced in it
dϕ
s = - Ns dt
If output circuit is open Vs = s
dϕ
Vs = - Ns dt
V N
Thus V s = N s
p p

For an ideal transformer, Pout = Pin ⇒ IsVs = IpVp

Vs Ip Ns
∴ = =
Vp Is Np
N
For step up transformer, N s > 1
p

In case of dc voltage, flux does not change. Thus no emf is induced in the circuit.
(i) The core of the transformer is laminated to reduce eddy current losses.
(ii) Thick copper wire is used in windings of transformers because of its low resistivity
i.e. low resistance.

11. (a) Draw a labeled diagram of a step up transformer. Obtain the ratio of secondary to
primary voltage in terms of number of turns and currents in the two coils. (b) A power
transmission line feeds input power at 2200V to a step down transformer with its primary
windings having 3000 turns. Find the number of turns in the secondary to get the power
output to 220V.
Sol. (a) Same as Q 11
(b) Np = 3000, Vp = 2200V, Vs = 220V, Ns = ?
V N Np Vs 3000×220
As V s = N s or Ns = = = 300.
p p Vp 2200

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G. CASE STUDY 210

1. 1. In essence of the simplest tuned radio frequency receiver is a simple crystal set.
Desired frequency is tuned by a tuned coil/ capacitor combination, and then the signal is
presented to a simple crystal or diode detector where the amplitude modulated signal, is
demodulated. This is then passed straight to the headphones or speaker. In radio set there
is an LC oscillator comprising of a variable capacitor (or sometimes a variable coupling
coil) with a knob on the front panel to tune the receiver.
Capacitors used in old radio sets is gang capacitor. It consists of two sets of parallel
circular plats one of which can rotate manually by means of a knob. The rotation causes
overlapping areas of plats to change, thus changing its capacitance. Air gap between
plates acts as dielectric.
The capacitor has to be tuned in tandem corresponding to the frequency of a station so
that the LC combination of the radio set resonates at the frequency of the desired station.
When capacitive resistance (XC) is equal to the inductive reactance (XL), then the
1
resonance occurs and the resonant frequency is given by 0 = current amplitude
√LC
becomes maximum at the resonant frequency. It is important to note that resonance
phenomenon is exhibited by a circuit only if both L and C are present in the circuit. Only
then do the voltages across L and C cancel each other (both being out of phase) and the
Vm
Current amplitude is , the total source voltage appearing across R.
R
This means that we cannot have resonance in a RL or RC circuit.
(i) Name the phenomenon involved in the tuning a radio set to a particular radio station.
(a) Stabilization (b) Rectification (c) Resonance (d) Reflection
Ans. (c)
Phenomenon involved in tuning a radio set to a particular radio station is resonance. The
capacitor has to be tuned in tandem corresponding to the frequency of a station. So, that
the LC combination of the radio set resonance at the frequency of the desired station.
(ii) Resonance may occur in
(a) RL circuit (b) RC circuit (c) LC circuit (d) circuit having resistor only
Ans. (c)
A simple radio receiver is a simple crystal set with a coil and capacitor combination.
Desired frequency is tuned by tuning the coil capacitor combination. Tuning means to
make capacitive reactance (XC) equal to the inductance reactance (XL), so that the
resonance occurs.
(iii) Resonance frequency is equal to
1 1 L C
(a) LC (b) (c) √C (d) √L
√LC
Ans. (b)
1
The resonant frequency is given by 0 =
√LC

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(iv) Resonance occurs only when
(a) XC = R (b) XL = R (c) XL = XC (d) XC > XL 211
Ans. (c)
At resonance, capacitive reactance (XC) is equal to the inductive reactance (XL). Circuit is
totally resistive and the current amplitude becomes maximum.
(v) Capacitor used in radio set for tuning is a
(a) parallel plate capacitor (b) spherical capacitor
(c) paper capacitor (d) electrolytic capacitor
Ans. (a)
Capacitors used in old radio sets is gang capacitor. It consists of two sets of parallel
circular plats one of which can rotate manually by means of a knob. The rotation causes
overlapping areas of plats to change, thus changing its capacitance.

2. At power plant, a transformer increases eh voltage of generated power by thousands of

volts so that it can be sent of long distances through high voltage transmission power
lines. Transmission lines are bundles of wires that carry electric power from power plants
to distant substations.
At substations, transformers lower the voltage of incoming power to make it acceptable
for high volume delivery to nearby end users.
Electricity is sent at extremely high voltage because it limits so called line losses, Very
good conductors of electricity also offer some resistance and this resistance becomes
considerable over long distances causing considerable loss.
At generating station, normally voltage is stepped up to around thousands of volts. Power
losses increase with the square of current. Therefore, keeping voltage high current
becomes low and the loss is minimized.
Another option of minimizing loss is the use of wires of super conducting material. Super
conducting materials are capable of conducting without resistance, they must be kept
extremely cold, nearly absolute zero, and this requirement makes standard super
conducting materials impractical to use. However, recent advances in super conducting
matrials have decreased cooling requirement. In Germany recently 1knm super
conducting cable have been installed connecting the generating station and the
destination. It has eliminated the line loss and the cable is capable of sending five times
more electricity than conventional cable. Using super conducting cables Germany has
also get rid of the need of costly transformers.
Transformers generate waste heat when they are in operation and oil is the coolant of
choice. It transfers the heat through convection to the transformer housing, which has
cooling fins or radiator similar to heat exchangers on the outside.
Flush point is a very important parameter of transformer oil. Flash point of an oil is the
temperature at which the coil ignites spontaneously. This must be as high as possible (not
less than 160°C from the point of safety).

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 Fire point is the temperature at which the oil flashes and continuously burns. This must
be very high for the chosen oil (not less than 200°C). 212
(i) Which of the following statement is true for long distance transmission of electricity?
(a) Step down transformer is used at generating station and step up transformer is used at
destination substation.
(b) Step down transformers are used at generating station and destination substation.
(c) Step up transformers are sued at generating station and destination substation.
(d) None of the above.
Ans. (d)
At power plant, a transformer increases eh voltage of generated power by thousands of
volts so that it can be sent of long distances through high voltage transmission power
lines.
At substations, transformers lower the voltage of incoming power to make it acceptable
for high volume delivery to nearby end users.
(ii) Super conducting transmission line has the following disadvantages:
(a) Resistance being zero, there in not PR loss.
(b) There is no requirement of costly step up and step down transformers.
(c) Cable is capable of sending more electricity.
(d) All of the above.
Ans. (d)
Super conducting materials are capable of conducting without resistance. So, this
eliminates the line loss and the cable is capable of sending more electricity than
conventional cable. Using super conducting cables, one can get rid of the need of costly
transformers
(iii) Why does stepping up voltages reduce power loss?
(a) Since resistance of conductor decreases with increase in voltage.
(b) Since current decreases with increase of voltage
(c) Both of the above (d) None of the above
Ans. (b)
At generating station, normally voltage is stepped up to around thousands of volts. Power
losses increase with the square of current. Therefore, keeping voltage high current
becomes low and the loss is minimized.
(iv) Oil transfers heat from transformer winding by the process of
(a) convection (b) conduction (c) radiation (d) all of these
Ans. (a)
Transformers generate waste heat when they are in operation and oil is the coolant of
choice. It transfers the heat through convection to the transformer housing.
(v) Flush point of an oil is
(a) the temperature at which the oil flashes and continuously biurns.
(b) The temperature at which the oil ignites spontaneously

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 (c) the temperature at which the oil starts boiling.
(d) the temperature at which the oil forms fumes. 213
Ans. (b)
Flush point is a very important parameter of transformer oil. Flash point of an oil is the
temperature at which the coil ignites spontaneously. This must be as high as possible (not
less than 160°C from the point of safety).

H. ASSERTION REASON TYPE QUESTIONS:

(a) If both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.
(b) If both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of
assertion.
(c) If assertion is true but reason is false (d) If both assertion and reason are false
(e) If assertion is false but reason is true.
1. Assertion: An electric lamp connected in series with a variable capacitor and A.C. source,
its brightness increases with increase in capacitance.
Reason: Capacitive resistance decreases with increase in capacitance of capacitor.
Ans. (a) Both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.
1
Capacitive resistance XC== ωC. When capacitance (C) increases, the capacitive reactance
decreases. Due to decrease in its values, the current in the circuit will increase (I =
E
) and hence brightness of source (or electric lamp) will also increases.
√R2 +X2
2. Assertion: Choke coil is preferred over a resistor to adjust current in an A.C. circuit.
Reason: Power factor for inductance is zero.
Ans. (a) Both assertion and reason are true and reason is the correct explanation of assertion.
If resistor is used in controlling AC supply, electric energy will be wasted in the form of
heat energy across the resistance wire. However, AC supply can be controlled with choke
without any wastage of energy. This is because power factor (cos ) for resistance is one
an it is zero for an inductance.
3. Assertion: The core of transformer is made laminated in order to increase the eddy
currents.
Reason: The sensitivity of transformer increases with increase in eddy current.
Ans. (d) Both assertion and reason are false.
Eddy currents is produced in the iron core due to induced emf since resistance of the iron
core is quite small, the magnitude of eddy currents is quite large. As a result, large
amount of heat is produced. To avoid it a laminated core is used in transformer. In
laminated core iron stripes are quite thin and each strip possesses very large resistance,
the magnitude of eddy currents produced is quite small and hence only a small amount of
heat is produced.
4. Assertion: The working of dynamo is based on the principle of self induction.
Reason: Self induction of a coil is numerically equal to the magnetic flux linked to the
coil, when a unit current flow through it.
Ans. (e) Assertion is false but reason is true.

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 In a dynamo, a a coil is rotated with a fixed frequency in a given magnetic field. As a
result of this, magnetic flux linked with the coil changes continuously with respect to 214
time at a constant rate and therefore induced current is produced continuously in the coil.
The dynamo is based on the principle of electromagnetic induction.
5. Assertion: A capacitor suitable capacitance can be used in an A.C. circuit in place of the
choke coil.
Reason: A capacitor blocks D.C. and allows A.C. only.
Ans. (b) Both assertion and reason are true but reason is not the correct explanation of
assertion.
We can use a capacitor of suitable capacitance as a choke coil, because average power
consumed in an ideal capacitor is zero. Therefore, like a choke coil, a condenser can
reduce A.C. without power dissipation.

I. CHALLENGING PROBLEMS

1. Keeping the source frequency equal to the resonating frequency of the series LCR circuit,
if the three elements, L, C and R are arranged in parallel, show that the total current in the
parallel LCR circuit is minimum at this frequency. Obtain the current rms value in each
branch of the circuit for the elements of frequency. Source has emf 230 V and L = 5.0 H,
C = 80 μF, ff = 40 Ω.
Sol. The effective impedance of the parallel LCR combination is given by

1 1 1 1
= R + jωL + 1
Z
jωC
1 1 1
Or Z = R + j (ωC − ωL)

1 1
Or =√ 1 2
|Z| R2 +(ωC− )
ωL

Where |Z| is the modulus of the complex impedance Z. Obviously 1/|Z| is minimum when
 = r when c = 1/L’, so that |Z| is minimum and the total current amplitude is
minimum. Hence at resonance the current in the parallel LCXR circuit is minimum.
Vrms 230
At resonance, Z = R, for total current in the circuit, I rms = = = 5.75A
R 40
Vrms 230
The rms current in the R branch is IrmsR = = = 5.75A
R 40
Vrms 230
The rms current in the L branch is IrmsL = = 50×5.0 = 0.92A
𝜔rL
C Vrms
The rms current in the C branch is Irms = I/𝜔 = Vrms × 𝜔rC = 230×50×80×10-6 A =
rC
0.92A

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 Not the a the total current in the circuit is the same as that in the R branch. This is
because the currents in L and C branches are 180° out of phase and add up to zero at 215
every instant of the cycle.

2. Obtain the resonant frequency and Q-factor of a series LCR circuit with L = 3.0 H, C= 27
μF, and R = 7.4 fl. It is desired to improve the sharpness of the resonance of the circuit by
reducing its ‘full width at half maximum’ by a factor of 2. Suggest a suitable way.
Sol. Here L = 3.0H, C = 27 F = 27 × 10-6F, R = 7.4 
1 1
Resonant frequency, r = = −6
= 111 rad s-1
√LC √3.0×27×10
ωr L 111×3.0
Q factor of the circuit, Q = R = 7.4 = 45
To improve sharpness of resonance by a factor of 2, Q should be doubled. To double Q
without changing r, R should be reduced to half i.e. to 3.7.

3. A series LCR circuit with L = 0.12 H, C = 480 μF, R = 23 Ω is connected to a 230 V

variable frequency supply.
(a) What is the source frequency for which current amplitude is maximum? Obtain this
maximum value.
(b) What is the source frequency for which average power absorbed by the circuit is
maximum? Obtain the value of this maximum power.
(c) For which frequencies of the source is the power transferred to the circuit half the
power at resonant frequency? What is the current amplitude at these frequencies?
(d) What is the Q-factor of the given circuit?
Sol. Here L = 0.12H, C = 480nF = 480 × 10-9F, R = 23, Vrms = 230V
(a) Current amplitude is maximum at resonant angular frequency
1 1
r = = −9
rad s-1 = 4167 rad s-1
√LC √0.12×480×10
ω 4167
Resonant frequency fr = 2πr = = 663 Hz
2π
V √2×230
The maximum value of current amplitude is I0max = R0 = 23 = 1.41A
(b) The power absorbed in maximum at the same resonant frequency (663Hz) for which
I0 is maximum.
1 √1 V2 1 ( 2×230)2
max
Therefore Pav = 2 (I0max )2 R = 2 R0 = 2 . = 2300W
23
(c) The two angular frequencies for which the power transferred to the circuit is half the
R
power at the resonant frequency, are r + r ± L
∆ω
The corresponding frequencies will be f = fr + f = fr + 2π
∆ω 1 R 1 23
Now 2π = 2𝜋 × 2L = 2π × 2×0.12 = 15.25Hz = 15 Hz
Therefore required values of f = 663 ± 15 648 Hz or 678 Hz
At these frequencies, power absorbed = ½ Pmax. As P ∝ I2, the current amplitude oat these
1 4.1
half power points = √2 I0max = 1 √2 = 9.97A = 10A
ωr L 4167×0.12
(d) The Q factor of the circuit is, Q = = = 21.7.
R 23

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4. A small town with a demand of 800 kW of 1 electric power at 220 V is situated 15 km
away from an electric plant generating power at 440V. The resistance of the two wire line 216
carrying power is 0.5 Q per km. The town gets 1 power from the line through a 4000-220
V step- down transformer at a sub station in the town.
(a) Estimate the line power loss in the form of heat.
(b) How much power must the plant supply, assuming there is negligible power loss due
to leakage?
(c) Characterize the step up transformer at the plant.
Sol. Line resistance = Length of two wire line × Resistance per unit length
= 2 × 15km × 0.5  km-1 = 15
Voltage at which power is sent through the line = 4000V
Power supplied to town substation = 800 kW = 800 × 103W
Power 800×103
So rms value of current in the line = Voltage = A = 200A
4000
(a) Line power loss = I2R = (200)2 × 15W = 600 kW
(b) Power supplied by the plant = Power received at substation + line power loss
= 800+ 600 = 1400 kW
(c) Voltage drop on the line = IR = 200 × 15 = 3000V
Voltage output of the step up transformer at the plant = 4000+ 3000 = 7000V
Hence the step up transformer at the plant is 440 – 7000 V

5. Repeat the same exercise as in the previous question with the replacement of the earlier
transformer by a 40,000-220 V step down transformer. (Neglect, as before, leakage losses
through this may not be a good assumption any longer because of the very high voltage
transmission involved). Hence, explain why high voltage transmission is preferred?
800×103 W
Sol. The rms current in the two wire line = 40,000V = 20A
(a) Line power loss = I2 R = (20)2 × 15 = 6000W = 6 kW
(b) Power supplied by the plant = 800 + 6 = 806 kW
(c) Voltage drop on the line = IR = 20 × 15 = 300V
Voltage output of the step up transformer at the plant = 40,000 + 300 = 40, 300V
Therefore, the step up transformer at the plane is 440V – 40,300V.
600
Power loss in last question = 1400 × 100 = 43%
6
Power loss in this question, × 100 = 0.74%
806
Thus the percentage power loss is greatly reduced by high voltage transmission. At high
voltage transmission, a small current flows and hence power loss is less (P ∝ I2).

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 217

SPACE FOR ROUGH WORK

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 218

SPACE FOR NOTES

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