Question:

An RC circuit as shown in the figure is driven by a AC source generating a square wave. The output wave pattern monitored by CRO would look close to :

Show Hint

The CRO measures the voltage across the capacitor, which cannot jump instantly; it charges and discharges exponentially in each half-cycle.
Updated On: Nov 4, 2026
Show Solution
collegedunia
Verified By Collegedunia

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

The resistor R is in series with the source and the CRO is connected across the capacitor C, so the output is the capacitor voltage (an RC integrator or low-pass circuit).
When the square wave is high, the capacitor charges: \(V_C = V_0(1 - e^{-t/RC})\), a rising curve that is concave downward (steep at first, flattening later).
When the square wave goes low, the capacitor discharges through R: \(V_C = V_1 e^{-t/RC}\), a falling curve that is steep at first and flattens later.
The voltage across a capacitor cannot change instantaneously, so the output cannot have vertical jumps. Options (1) to (3) show sudden vertical drops, which is impossible; option (4) shows continuous rising and falling exponential arcs.
Answer: (4) the continuous curve made of alternating exponential charging and discharging arcs
Was this answer helpful?
0
0

Top JEE Main Physics Questions

View More Questions