An aptitude test on the basics of electronics, designed for a Master's Degree Programme in Electrical

and Microsystems Engineering (MEM), would typically cover both fundamental and advanced concepts.
The test could involve topics ranging from basic electrical principles to complex systems like
microelectronics, MEMS, and their applications in engineering. Below is an example of the type of
questions that could appear in such a test:

Aptitude Test: Basics of Electronics (for Master's in Electrical and Microsystems Engineering)

Part A: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

1. Which of the following components stores electrical energy in the form of a magnetic field?

o A) Capacitor

o B) Resistor

o C) Inductor

o D) Diode

Answer: C) Inductor

2. In a P-N junction diode, the region where no current flows is called the:

o A) Depletion region

o B) Forward bias region

o C) Reverse bias region

o D) Conduction region

Answer: A) Depletion region

3. The primary function of a voltage regulator IC is to:

o A) Amplify the signal

o B) Maintain a stable output voltage

o C) Convert AC to DC

o D) Store energy

Answer: B) Maintain a stable output voltage

4. Which type of transistor is most commonly used in digital logic circuits?

o A) Bipolar Junction Transistor (BJT)

o B) Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor (MOSFET)

o C) Field-Effect Transistor (FET)

 o D) Darlington Transistor

Answer: B) Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor (MOSFET)

5. What is the primary characteristic of a MEMS (Microelectromechanical System) device?

o A) Large-scale integration of electrical circuits

o B) Integration of mechanical and electrical elements at a microscale

o C) Use of vacuum tubes

o D) Use of superconducting materials

Answer: B) Integration of mechanical and electrical elements at a microscale

Part B: True or False

6. True or False: A capacitor stores energy in an electric field and is used primarily for energy
storage in electrical systems.

Answer: True

7. True or False: An op-amp (Operational Amplifier) is a high-gain electronic voltage amplifier with
a differential input and a single output.

Answer: True

8. True or False: In a CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) technology, both N-

channel and P-channel MOSFETs are used to achieve low power consumption.

Answer: True

9. True or False: A Hall effect sensor measures temperature by detecting changes in resistance with
respect to heat.

Answer: False (It measures the magnetic field strength, not temperature.)

10. True or False: A diode can conduct current only in the reverse direction.

Answer: False (A diode conducts current in the forward direction, but blocks in the reverse direction.)

Part C: Fill in the Blanks

11. The primary function of a transformer is to __________ the voltage between circuits.

Answer: Step up or step down

12. In a microelectromechanical system (MEMS), the mechanical component is often fabricated

using __________ technology.

Answer: Photolithography
 13. A __________ is used to regulate the current in a circuit by providing a constant flow of
charge.

Answer: Resistor

14. An LED emits light when current flows in the __________ direction.

Answer: Forward

15. The process of fabricating MEMS devices involves the use of __________ to etch patterns into
the material.

Answer: Lithography

Part D: Short Answer Questions

16. Explain the working principle of a Zener diode and its application in voltage regulation.

Answer: A Zener diode allows current to flow in both directions, but it is designed to regulate voltage in
the reverse breakdown region. In this region, it maintains a constant voltage across it, making it useful
for voltage regulation. Zener diodes are commonly used in power supply circuits to maintain a stable
output voltage, regardless of input voltage fluctuations.

17. Discuss the significance of MEMS technology in modern electronics and its role in
miniaturizing devices.

Answer: MEMS technology integrates tiny mechanical structures and electrical components at the
microscale, allowing for miniaturization and high precision. MEMS devices can sense, actuate, and
control physical quantities (such as temperature, pressure, or motion) and are used in applications like
accelerometers, gyroscopes, and pressure sensors in consumer electronics, automotive systems, and
medical devices. MEMS enables smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient devices, driving the
development of portable and wearable technologies.

18. What is the function of an operational amplifier (Op-Amp) in analog circuits, and how is it used
in signal amplification?

Answer: An operational amplifier (Op-Amp) is a high-gain voltage amplifier with a differential input and a
single output. It amplifies the difference in voltage between its two input terminals. In analog circuits,
Op-Amps are used in various configurations, including inverting, non-inverting, integrator, and
differentiator circuits, to perform tasks such as signal amplification, filtering, and signal conditioning. Op-
Amps are critical in audio systems, sensor interfaces, and signal processing applications.

19. Define the role of a microcontroller in a MEMS-based system. How does it interact with MEMS
sensors?

Answer: A microcontroller in a MEMS-based system serves as the central processing unit that controls
the MEMS device's operation and processes the data received from the sensors. It interfaces with MEMS
sensors by receiving analog or digital signals from them, converting those signals (often using an ADC –
Analog to Digital Converter), and performing computations or triggering actions based on the sensor
data. Microcontrollers are crucial in systems like accelerometers, gyroscopes, and pressure sensors for
embedded applications in IoT devices, automotive systems, and medical equipment.

20. Describe the working of a relay and its application in controlling high-power circuits.

Answer: A relay is an electromechanical switch that opens or closes a circuit in response to an electrical
input signal. It consists of an electromagnet, a set of contacts, and a spring. When current flows through
the electromagnet, it creates a magnetic field that moves the contacts to either open or close the circuit.
Relays are used to control high-power circuits with a low-power signal, making them ideal for
applications like motor control, switching lights, and protecting circuits from overloads.

Part E: Problem-Solving

21. A circuit contains a 10kΩ resistor in series with a 100nF capacitor. Calculate the time constant
(τ) of the circuit.

Formula: τ = R × C

Answer: τ = 10,000Ω × 100nF = 10,000 × 100 × 10⁻⁹ = 1 millisecond (ms)

22. A MOSFET with a threshold voltage of 2V is connected in a common-source configuration. If

the gate-source voltage (Vgs) is 5V, calculate the gate-source voltage in excess of the threshold.

Formula: Vgs - Vth = 5V - 2V

Answer: Vgs - Vth = 3V

Conclusion

This test covers fundamental concepts in electronics, including both theoretical understanding and
practical applications, relevant to a Master's level program in Electrical and Microsystems Engineering
(MEM). Topics like semiconductor devices, MEMS, and analog/digital systems are key in developing the
necessary skills for advanced engineering practice in this field.

Creating a 100-question aptitude test for a Master's degree in Electrical and Microsystems
Engineering (MEM) program, covering the basics of electronics, requires a comprehensive
range of questions spanning core concepts, devices, and applications in electronics and
microelectronics. Below is an aptitude test consisting of multiple-choice questions, short answer
questions, true/false questions, and problem-solving questions designed to evaluate a student's
knowledge.

Aptitude Test: Basics of Electronics (for Master's in Electrical and Microsystems

Engineering)
Part A: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

1. What is the unit of electrical resistance?

o A) Volt

o B) Ampere
o C) Ohm
o D) Watt

Answer: C) Ohm

2. Which of the following is a type of active electronic component?

o A) Capacitor

o B) Resistor
o C) Diode
o D) Transistor

Answer: D) Transistor

3. In which region does a Zener diode operate for voltage regulation?

o A) Forward bias

o B) Reverse bias breakdown

o C) Conduction region
o D) Reverse leakage region

Answer: B) Reverse bias breakdown

4. What does the acronym MEMS stand for?

o A) Microelectronic Systems

o B) Microelectromechanical Systems
o C) Mechanical Electronic Systems
o D) Micro Embedded Systems

Answer: B) Microelectromechanical Systems

5. Which material is commonly used as a semiconductor?

o A) Aluminum

o B) Silicon
o C) Copper
 o D) Gold

Answer: B) Silicon

6. Which of the following is a type of transistor used for digital logic circuits?
o A) BJT

o B) MOSFET
o C) JFET
o D) UJT

Answer: B) MOSFET

7. Which component is used to store electrical energy in an electric field?

o A) Inductor

o B) Resistor
o C) Capacitor
o D) Transformer

Answer: C) Capacitor

8. In a common-emitter transistor amplifier, the input is applied to the:

o A) Collector

o B) Base
o C) Emitter
o D) Ground

Answer: B) Base

9. The operating principle of a relay is based on:

o A) Electromagnetic induction

o B) Electrostatic force
o C) Thermal expansion
o D) Piezoelectric effect

Answer: A) Electromagnetic induction

10. What is the primary function of a voltage regulator?

o A) Amplify the signal
 o B) Convert AC to DC
o C) Maintain a constant output voltage
o D) Store energy

Answer: C) Maintain a constant output voltage

Part B: True or False

11. True or False: An operational amplifier (Op-Amp) is designed to operate with both its
inputs at the same voltage.

Answer: False (Op-Amps have differential inputs.)

12. True or False: A MOSFET can act as a switch in digital circuits.

Answer: True

13. True or False: In a series circuit, the current remains the same through all components.

Answer: True

14. True or False: A light-emitting diode (LED) requires a forward bias to emit light.

Answer: True

15. True or False: A transformer can only step down the voltage.

Answer: False (A transformer can either step up or step down the voltage.)

16. True or False: The resistance of a thermistor decreases as the temperature increases.

Answer: True (For NTC thermistors.)

17. True or False: The main purpose of a fuse is to prevent excessive current flow in a
circuit.

Answer: True

18. True or False: A crystal oscillator generates a stable frequency signal in analog systems.

Answer: True

19. True or False: A Hall effect sensor detects magnetic fields.

Answer: True

20. True or False: A diode allows current to flow in both directions.

Answer: False (A diode allows current to flow only in one direction.)

Part C: Short Answer Questions

21. What is the function of a capacitor in an AC circuit?

Answer: A capacitor stores electrical energy and releases it when required. In an AC circuit, it
helps in filtering, coupling, and decoupling signals, and it can smooth out voltage fluctuations.

22. Explain the difference between a BJT and a MOSFET transistor.

Answer: A BJT (Bipolar Junction Transistor) is current-driven, where the current at the base
controls the current between the collector and emitter. A MOSFET (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor
Field-Effect Transistor) is voltage-driven, where the voltage at the gate controls the current flow
between the drain and source.

23. What is the principle of operation of a diode?

Answer: A diode allows current to flow in only one direction. When forward biased, the diode
allows current to pass; when reverse biased, it blocks current flow.

24. Why is silicon commonly used in semiconductor devices?

Answer: Silicon is widely used due to its abundance, stability, and ideal semiconductor
properties. It has a wide bandgap, making it suitable for both low and high-voltage applications.

25. Describe the role of a relay in controlling high-power circuits with low-power
signals.

Answer: A relay is an electrically operated switch that uses a low-power signal to control the
opening or closing of contacts in a high-power circuit. It allows for safe switching of high-
voltage devices using low-voltage control signals.

Part D: Fill in the Blanks

26. A __________ is a semiconductor material used for making most electronic devices.

Answer: Silicon
 27. A device that can convert mechanical energy into electrical energy is a __________.

Answer: Generator (or Motor)

28. The time constant (τ) of an RC circuit is given by the product of the resistance and
the capacitance, τ = __________.

Answer: R × C

29. In a P-N junction, the area where no free charge carriers exist is called the
__________ region.

Answer: Depletion

30. In a transistor, the base is the region between the __________ and __________.

Answer: Emitter, Collector

Part E: Problem-Solving Questions

31. Calculate the total resistance in a series circuit containing a 10Ω, 20Ω, and 30Ω
resistor.

Answer: Total Resistance (R) = 10Ω + 20Ω + 30Ω = 60Ω

32. In a parallel circuit, you have resistors of values 5Ω, 10Ω, and 15Ω. Calculate the
total resistance.

Formula: 1Rtotal=1R1+1R2+1R3\frac{1}{R_{\text{total}}} = \frac{1}{R_1} + \frac{1}{R_2}

+ \frac{1}{R_3}

Answer: 1Rtotal=15+110+115=0.5333\frac{1}{R_{\text{total}}} = \frac{1}{5} + \frac{1}{10}

+ \frac{1}{15} = 0.5333

Rtotal=1.875ΩR_{\text{total}} = 1.875Ω

33. If the supply voltage in a circuit is 12V and the resistance is 6Ω, calculate the
current using Ohm’s Law.

Formula: I=VRI = \frac{V}{R}

Answer: I=12V6Ω=2AI = \frac{12V}{6Ω} = 2A

 34. What is the power consumed by a 100Ω resistor when a current of 0.5A flows
through it?

Formula: P=I2RP = I^2 R

Answer: P=(0.5A)2×100Ω=25WP = (0.5A)^2 × 100Ω = 25W

35. An inductor has an inductance of 2H. What will be the inductive reactance at a
frequency of 50Hz?

Formula: XL=2πfLX_L = 2πfL

Answer: XL=2π×50×2=628.3ΩX_L = 2π × 50 × 2 = 628.3Ω

Part F: Advanced Concept Questions

36. Describe the operation of a power MOSFET and its role in high-power switching
applications.

Answer: A power MOSFET is a voltage-controlled device that allows for efficient switching in
high-power applications. It has a high input impedance and low on-resistance, which allows it to
switch large currents with minimal heat dissipation. It is used in applications like motor drivers,
power supplies, and DC-DC converters.

37. Explain how a frequency divider works and give an example of its application.

Answer: A

frequency divider takes an input frequency and divides it by a certain factor, usually using flip-
flops or counters. A typical application is in clock generation for digital circuits, where a higher-
frequency clock signal is divided down to a lower frequency for use in synchronous circuits.

Part G: Conceptual Questions

38. What are the advantages of CMOS technology over bipolar technology?

Answer: CMOS technology offers advantages such as low power consumption, high noise
immunity, and better scalability, which make it ideal for high-density integrated circuits. CMOS
circuits also generate less heat, which is beneficial in complex digital systems.

39. What is the role of a voltage follower (buffer) in electronic circuits?

Answer: A voltage follower provides high input impedance and low output impedance, ensuring
that the voltage at its input is copied exactly at the output, without drawing current from the
source. It is used to isolate different stages of a circuit and prevent loading effects.

40. Describe the principle behind the operation of a thermistor and its application in
temperature measurement.

Answer: A thermistor is a type of resistor whose resistance changes with temperature. NTC
(Negative Temperature Coefficient) thermistors decrease in resistance as temperature increases.
They are used in temperature sensing applications, such as in temperature compensators, thermal
protection circuits, and thermostats.

This test provides a comprehensive evaluation across various aspects of electronics, ranging
from basic principles to advanced topics related to MEMS and modern semiconductor
technology, suitable for students in a Master's program in Electrical and Microsystems
Engineering.