Question

Difficulty: EasyResistors and Potentiometers

Fill in the blanks to complete the statement describing variable resistor terminology.

Answer:A three-terminal variable resistor commonly used to create an adjustable voltage divider is called a 【potentiometer】, and the internal adjustable contact that moves across the resistive track is called the 【wiper】.

Answer

blank_1: potentiometer; blank_2: wiper
A potentiometer is a three-terminal variable resistor widely used to provide an adjustable voltage division in electronic circuits. The two outer terminals connect across the full resistive element, while the center movable contact, called the wiper, adjusts the output voltage based on its mechanical position.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the standard three-terminal variable resistor component
A potentiometer (often abbreviated 'pot') is a three-terminal variable resistor configured to divide voltage across its resistive track.
By definition in basic electronics, a three-terminal variable resistor used for voltage division is designated as a potentiometer.
2
Identify the movable mechanical contact mechanism
The sliding contact that traverses the resistive material to tap off a portion of the total resistance is called the wiper.
The standard technical term for the adjustable middle contact of a potentiometer or rheostat is the wiper.

Key Concept

Potentiometer structure and terminology
Estimated Time:30s
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