All questions of Transient Analysis in AC & DC Circuits for Electrical Engineering (EE) Exam

In an R-L circuit connected to an alternating sinusoidal voltage, size of transient current primarily depends on:
  • a)
    the voltage frequency
  • b)
    the circuit impedance
  • c)
    the instant in the voltage cycle at which circuit is closed
  • d)
    the peak value of steady-state current
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Series RL circuit:
Let the voltage be Vs(t) = Vm sin ωt
The transient current equation is 
where
Vm = Peak value of voltage
θ = Peak value of impedance angle
ω = angular frequency
R = Resistance
L = Inductance
α = instant at which the circuit is closed
θ = Impedance angle
The exponential decay term represents the transient term and the remaining is the steady-state term.
The response is shown below;
In the steady-state, the RLC circuit elements give a response that is in synchronization to the input frequency.
Because transient analysis expressions consist of exponential decay terms.
Size of transient current primarily depends on the instant in the voltage cycle at which circuit is closed i.e. it depends on α value.

For a critically damped second-order system, what is the time constant τ?
  • a)
    1/ωn
  • b)
    2/ωn
  • c)
    1/(2ωn)
  • d)
    ωn
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

EduRev GATE answered
The time constant, τ, for a critically damped second-order system can be determined using the natural frequency, ωn. The relationship is as follows:
  • The time constant is defined as τ = 1/(2ωn).
  • This indicates that the system responds quickly without oscillating.
  • Understanding this relationship is crucial for analysing system behaviour.
 

What is the phase angle between the capacitor current and the applied voltage in a parallel RC circuit?
  • a)
    90° 
  • b)
    0° 
  • c)
    45° 
  • d)
    180° 
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Naroj Boda answered
The phasor diagram is drawn as:
 
1) There is no phase difference between the applied voltage and the voltage across R and C in parallel.
2) The current through the resistive branch is in phase with the applied signal.
3) But the current through the capacitive branch leads its voltage Vc by 90 degrees.
.

The output in response to a unit step input for a particular continuous control system is c(t)= 1-e-t. What is the delay time Td?
  • a)
    0.36
  • b)
    0.18
  • c)
    0.693
  • d)
    0.289
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

The output is given as a function of time. The final value of the output is limn->∞c(t) = 1; .
Hence Td (at 50% of the final value) is the solution of 0.5 = 1-e-Td, and is equal to ln 2 or 0.693 sec.

Consider a system with transfer function G(s) = s + 6/Ks2 + s + 6. Its damping ratio will be 0.5 when the values of k is:
  • a)
    2/6
  • b)
    3
  • c)
    1/6
  • d)
    6
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Uday Saini answered
Transfer Function

The given transfer function is:
G(s) = s^6 / (Ks^2 + s^6)

Damping Ratio

The damping ratio, denoted by ζ (zeta), is a parameter that characterizes the behavior of a second-order linear system. It determines the response of the system to a step input and provides information about the system's stability and transient response.

Definition of Damping Ratio

The damping ratio is defined as the ratio of the actual damping coefficient to the critical damping coefficient. Mathematically, it is expressed as:
ζ = c / c_critical

where c is the actual damping coefficient and c_critical is the critical damping coefficient.

Finding the Damping Ratio

To find the damping ratio of the given transfer function G(s), we need to determine the actual damping coefficient c and the critical damping coefficient c_critical.

1. Actual Damping Coefficient (c):
The actual damping coefficient can be determined by examining the denominator of the transfer function. In this case, the denominator is Ks^2 + s^6. Since the denominator is a quadratic polynomial, we can compare it with the general form of a second-order system's characteristic equation:
s^2 + 2ζω_ns + ω_n^2

Comparing the coefficients, we can see that the actual damping coefficient c is equal to 2ζω_n, where ω_n is the natural frequency.

2. Critical Damping Coefficient (c_critical):
The critical damping coefficient corresponds to the case where the system is critically damped. In this case, the damping ratio is equal to 1. For a critically damped system, the damping coefficient c_critical is given by:
c_critical = 2√(K)

Equating Damping Coefficients

Now, we can equate the actual damping coefficient c to the critical damping coefficient c_critical and solve for the damping ratio ζ.

2ζω_n = 2√(K)

Dividing both sides by 2ω_n, we get:
ζ = √(K) / ω_n

In the given transfer function, the numerator is s^6 and the denominator is Ks^2 + s^6. The natural frequency ω_n can be determined by finding the square root of the coefficient of s^2 in the denominator.

Since the damping ratio is given as 0.5, we can substitute this value into the equation for ζ and solve for K.

0.5 = √(K) / ω_n

Squaring both sides, we get:
0.25 = K / (K + 1)

Simplifying the equation, we have:
0.25(K + 1) = K

Expanding the equation, we get:
0.25K + 0.25 = K

Rearranging the terms, we get:
0.75K = 0.25

Dividing both sides by 0.75, we get:
K = 1/3

Therefore, the value of K for which the damping ratio is 0.5 is 1/3, which corresponds to option C.

A switch is connected in between a 12 V battery and an uncharged capacitor and a 1 KΩ resistor. At the time instant when the switch is closed, the voltage across the capacitor is:
  • a)
    6 V
  • b)
    12 V
  • c)
    0 V
  • d)
    24 V
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Pooja Patel answered
Concept:
A capacitor doesn’t allow a sudden change in voltage across it, i.e.
Vc(0-) = Vc(0+)
Calculation:
Given circuit can be drawn as:
⇒ Vc(0-) = 0V (because the switch is open)
At t = 0+ (i.e. at the instant when the switch is closed)
Vc(0+) = 0 V

Inductive load of resistance 20 Ω and inductance 0.1 H is connected in series and switched on to an AC voltage of V = 100 sin(200 t + α). Find the angle α such that there is no transients?
  • a)
    45°
  • b)
    60°
  • c)
    30°
  • d)
    75°
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Mainak Pillai answered
The term "inductive load" refers to a type of load in an electrical circuit that contains an inductor. An inductor is a passive electronic component that stores energy in a magnetic field when current flows through it.

The inductive load can be characterized by its inductance, which is typically measured in henries (H). However, the resistance value mentioned in the question is not directly related to inductance. Resistance is a measure of the opposition to the flow of current in a circuit and is typically measured in ohms (Ω).

The inductive load can cause a phase shift between the current and voltage waveforms in an AC circuit. This phase shift is due to the energy stored and released by the inductor. The amount of phase shift depends on the inductance value and the frequency of the AC signal.

In summary, the resistance value of 20 Ω mentioned in the question does not provide enough information to determine the inductive load. The inductance value would be needed to fully characterize the inductive load.

The unit step response of a second order system is = 1-e-5t-5te-5t . Consider the following statements:
1. The under damped natural frequency is 5 rad/s.
2. The damping ratio is 1.
3. The impulse response is 25te-5t.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
  • a)
    Only 1 and 2
  • b)
    Only 2 and 3
  • c)
    Only 1 and 3
  • d)
    1,2 and 3
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Srestha Gupta answered
Explanation:

The given unit step response of a second-order system is:

y(t) = 1 - e^(-5t) - 5t * e^(-5t)

To analyze the system, we need to find the natural frequency and the damping ratio.

1. The underdamped natural frequency is 5 rad/s:

To find the natural frequency, we need to find the coefficient of the exponential term in the unit step response. In this case, the coefficient is -5.

Natural frequency (ωn) = sqrt(coefficient) = sqrt(-5) = √5

So, the given statement is correct.

2. The damping ratio is 1:

To find the damping ratio, we need to find the coefficient of the linear term in the unit step response. In this case, the coefficient is -5t.

The damping ratio (ζ) is given by the formula:

ζ = coefficient / (2 * natural frequency) = (-5) / (2 * √5) = -√5 / 2

The given statement is incorrect. The damping ratio is not 1.

3. The impulse response is 25te^(-5t):

To find the impulse response, we need to differentiate the unit step response with respect to time.

Differentiating the unit step response, we get:

y'(t) = 5e^(-5t) - 5e^(-5t) - 5te^(-5t) + 25te^(-5t)

Simplifying, we get:

y'(t) = 5te^(-5t)

Comparing this with the given impulse response, we can see that they are the same.

So, the given statement is correct.

Therefore, the correct statements are:

1. The underdamped natural frequency is 5 rad/s.
3. The impulse response is 25te^(-5t).

Hence, the correct answer is option D) 1, 2, and 3.

The network function (s + 1)(s + 4)/s(s + 2)(s + 5) represents
  • a)
    RC impedance
  • b)
    RL impedance
  • c)
    LC impedance
  • d)
    All of the mentioned
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Mainak Pillai answered
RL Impedance Representation:
RL impedance refers to the impedance in a circuit that consists of a resistor and an inductor. The given network function can be represented as (s + 1)(s + 4)/s(s + 2)(s + 5).

Analysis:
1. The network function contains terms in the form of (s + a) where 'a' is a constant. These terms indicate poles in the system.
2. The terms in the denominator indicate the roots of the characteristic equation that represent the natural response of the system.
3. The presence of (s + 1)(s + 4) in the numerator suggests the presence of poles at s = -1 and s = -4.
4. Poles at negative real values imply the existence of energy storage elements like inductors in the system.
5. The absence of any term in the form of (s + b) where 'b' is a constant in the numerator indicates the absence of zeros in the system.

Conclusion:
Based on the analysis, the network function (s + 1)(s + 4)/s(s + 2)(s + 5) can be associated with an RL impedance. The presence of poles at negative real values (-1 and -4) suggests the involvement of energy storage elements like inductors, which aligns with the characteristics of RL impedance.

In the circuit shown, the voltage VIN(t) is described by:
where t is in seconds. The time (in seconds) at which the current I in the circuit will reach the value 2 Amperes is ________.
    Correct answer is between '0.3,0.4'. Can you explain this answer?

    Concept:
    Calculation:
    Taking Laplace to transform with given conditions
    Applying KCL at V(s) node:
    Taking the inverse Laplace transform, we get:
    i(t) = 5(1 – e-3t/2)
    Given, at t = t0
    i = 2 A
    2 = 5 (1 – e-3t/2)
    t = 0.3405 sec

    Calculate the peak value of the source voltage (in V) if the root-mean square voltage across the resistor and inductor in a series RL circuit is 13 V and 12 V, respectively. 
    • a)
      1
    • b)
      17.68
    • c)
      25
    • d)
      3
    Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

    Pooja Patel answered
    Concept:
    Source voltage RMS value of a series RL circuit will be;
    Vrms = √(VR2 + VL2)
    Where;
    Vrms → Source voltage in RMS.
    VR  → Voltage across resistance in RMS.
    VL  → Voltage across inductor in RMS.
    RMS voltage = Peak voltage/√(2) 
    Calculation:
    Given;
    VR = 13 V
    VL  = 12 V
    Vrms = √(VR2 + VL2) = √(132 + 122) = 17.69
    Peak value of the source voltage = Vrms × √2 = 25.01 V ≈ 25 V

    The network function (s2 + 4s)/(s + 1)(s + 2)(s + 3) represents
    • a)
      RC impedance
    • b)
      RL impedance
    • c)
      LC impedance
    • d)
      None of the mentioned
    Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

    Uday Saini answered
    Explanation:

    Network Function Analysis:
    The given network function is in the form of a transfer function representing a system in the Laplace domain. It is a ratio of polynomials in the Laplace variable 's'.

    RC, RL, and LC Impedance:
    The network function (s^2 + 4s) / ((s + 1)(s + 2)(s + 3)) does not directly represent an RC, RL, or LC impedance. It is a transfer function that describes the input-output relationship of a system, rather than an impedance characteristic.

    Impedance Representation:
    Impedance characteristics are typically represented by expressions involving complex variables such as s or jω, where ω is the frequency. The given network function does not have the form of an impedance expression involving resistors, capacitors, or inductors.

    Conclusion:
    Therefore, the correct answer is option 'D' - None of the mentioned. The given network function is a transfer function and does not directly correspond to an RC, RL, or LC impedance. It describes the system's dynamics in the Laplace domain rather than an impedance characteristic.

    In the figure shown, the ideal switch has been open for a long time.
    If it is closed at t = 0, then the magnitude of the current (in mA) through the 4kΩ resistor at t = 0+ is _______.
      Correct answer is between '1.2,1.3'. Can you explain this answer?

      Naroj Boda answered
      Concept:
      Under steady-state:
      • When a capacitor, is present with a D.C supply, it behaves as an open circuit.
      • When an inductor is present with D.C supply, it behaves as a short circuit
      At t = 0+ :
      Inductor replace with current source IL (0+) = IL (0-)
      The inductor does NOT allow the sudden change in current”
      The capacitor is replaced with the voltage source
      Vc (0+) = Vc (0-)
      The capacitor does NOT allow the sudden change in voltage.
      Calculation:
      The circuit at t = 0-
      Vc (0-) = 5 V
      Circuit at t = 0+
      I = 5/4 = 1.25mA

      Time constant in an R-L circuit is defined as the time taken by the current to become
      • a)
        36.8% of the final value
      • b)
        36.8% of the initial value
      • c)
        63.2% of the final value
      • d)
        None of these
      Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

      Time Constant in an R-L circuit refers to the time taken by the current to reach approximately 63.2% of its final value after a change in voltage or current is applied to the circuit.

      The time constant is determined by the values of resistance (R) and inductance (L) in the circuit. It is denoted by the symbol τ (tau) and is calculated using the formula:

      τ = L / R

      where:
      τ = time constant
      L = inductance in henries (H)
      R = resistance in ohms (Ω)

      Explanation:
      To understand why the time constant represents 63.2% of the final value, we need to consider the behavior of an R-L circuit when a voltage or current is applied.

      - Initially, when a change in voltage or current is applied, the current in an inductor (L) cannot change instantaneously. It builds up gradually.
      - As time progresses, the current increases, but it takes a certain amount of time for the current to reach its maximum value.
      - The time constant represents the time it takes for the current to reach 63.2% of its final value.
      - After one time constant (τ), the current in the circuit is approximately 63.2% of the final value.
      - It takes multiple time constants for the current to reach its final value. However, the majority of the change occurs within the first few time constants.

      In other words, the time constant is a measure of the rate at which the current in an R-L circuit approaches its final value. It indicates how quickly the current rises when a voltage or current is applied and how long it takes for the current to settle at its final value.

      Hence, the correct answer is option C: 63.2% of the final value.

      The peak percentage overshoot of the closed loop system is :
      • a)
        5.0%
      • b)
        10.0%
      • c)
        16.3%
      • d)
        1.63%
      Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

      Pooja Patel answered
      C(s)/R(s) = 1/s2+s+1
      C(s)/R(s) = w/ws+ 2Gws + w2
      Compare both the equations,
      w = 1 rad/sec
      2Gw = 1
      Mp = 16.3 %

      Assertion (A.: It is observed that step function is first derivative of a ramp function and impulse function is first derivative of a step function.
      Reason (R): From the derived time response expression it is concluded that the output time response also follows the same sequence as that of input functions.
      • a)
        Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
      • b)
        Both A and R are true but R is not correct explanation of A
      • c)
        Both A is True but R is false
      • d)
        Both A is False but R is true
      Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

      Partho Saha answered
      Understanding the Assertion and Reason
      The assertion (A) states that a step function is the first derivative of a ramp function, and an impulse function is the first derivative of a step function. This statement is indeed true in the context of signal processing.
      Key Points of Assertion (A):
      - Ramp Function: A ramp function increases linearly over time. Its derivative represents the rate of change.
      - Step Function: The step function is constant (zero) until a specific point, where it jumps to a value. The derivative of a ramp function is a step function, indicating an instantaneous change.
      - Impulse Function: An impulse function is a theoretical function that represents an instantaneous spike in value. The derivative of a step function, which changes at a single point, is an impulse function.
      Examining the Reason (R)
      The reason (R) posits that the output time response follows the same sequence as that of the input functions based on the derived time response expression. This statement is also true but does not directly explain the assertion.
      Key Points of Reason (R):
      - Output Time Response: It is derived from the system's response to various input functions.
      - Sequence of Functions: While the time response does follow the sequence of input functions, this does not clarify why the relationships between ramp, step, and impulse functions exist.
      Conclusion
      - Correctness of A and R: Both A and R are true statements. However, R does not explain A adequately.
      - Option B: Thus, the correct answer is option 'B': Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.

      A series RL circuit having a resistance of 20 Ω and inductance of 8 H is connected to a DC voltage source of 120 V at t = 0. The current in the circuit at t = 0.6 sec is
      • a)
        0 A
      • b)
        2.33 A
      • c)
        4.66 A
      • d)
        1 A
      Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

      Pooja Patel answered
      Concept:
      The Series R-L circuit with DC source is shown below as.
      Formula:
      The  voltage across the resistor is 
      VR = i.R
      The voltage across the Inductor is 
      The formula for alternating current passes through the R-L circuit is
      Calculation:

      Calculate the power factor of a series RL circuit having the conductance of 30 Siemens and the susceptance of 40 Siemens. 
      • a)
        0.2 
      • b)
        0.4
      • c)
        0.6
      • d)
        0.8
      Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

      Pooja Patel answered
      Concept:
      The admittance triangle is also represented similarly to the impedance triangle. As the impedance (Z) of the circuit has two rectangular components, resistance (R) and reactance (X).
      Similarly, admittance (Y) also has two components, conductance (G) and susceptance (B).
      Then Power factor will be:
      PF = cosθ  = G/Y
      Calculation:
      Given;
      G = 30 siemens
      B = 40 Siemens
      Y = √(302 + 402) = 50 Siemens
      PF = cosθ = 30/50 = 0.6

      In the circuit shown below, steady state was reached when the switch ‘s’ was open. The switch was closed at t = 0. Then initial value of the current through the capacitor 2C is?
      • a)
        0 A
      • b)
        1 A
      • c)
        2 A
      • d)
        3 A
      Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

      At steady-state conditions, the capacitor acts as an open circuit, and the inductor acts as a short circuit.
      Now considering t = 0-,
      Now voltage across 4 Ω resistor is 12 V.
      Considering t = 0+
      By KCL, 
      i2c (0+) = 2 A
      The initial value of the current through the capacitor 2 C is 2 A.

      The initial charge in the 1 F capacitor present in the circuit shown is zero. The energy in joules transferred from the DC source until steady state condition is reached equals _________. (Give the answer up to one decimal place.)
        Correct answer is between '99,101'. Can you explain this answer?

        Given circuit diagram:
        The above circuit can be redrawn as, (the above circuit forms a balanced bridge condition)
        The equivalent resistance of all the 5 Ω resistors is 5 Ω 
        Current in the circuit will be 
        i(t) = I e-4τ
        Time constant τ = RC = 5 secs
        Energy transferred from the DC source,
         

        In the circuit shown below, switch S1 and S2 are in open and close position respectively for long time. At t = t0, switch S1 is closed and switch S2 is opened. What would be the current through R1 immediately after the transition of switches?
        • a)
          0 mA
        • b)
          1 mA
        • c)
          0.5 mA
        • d)
          2 mA
        Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

        Concept:
        A capacitor doesn’t allow a sudden change in voltage, i.e. Vc(0+) = Vc(0-).
        Similarly, an inductor doesn’t allow a sudden change in current, i.e. iL(0+) = iL(0-)
        Calculation:
        The circuit for t = t0- is as shown,
        Vc(t0-) = 5V as shown above,
        At t = t0+, the circuit will be as shown, in which the capacitor will be at 5V (∵ Vc(0+) = Vc(0-))
        To find the voltage at node ‘x’, we apply KCL to get,
        Now the required current through R1 = 5KΩ, immediately after the transition of switches is
         

        In Reciprocity Theorem, which of the following ratios is considered?
        • a)
          Voltage to current
        • b)
          Current to current
        • c)
          Voltage to voltage
        • d)
          No ratio is considered
        Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

        Saranya Mishra answered
        Reciprocity Theorem in Electrical Engineering
        The Reciprocity Theorem in electrical engineering states that in a linear bilateral network, the ratio of voltage to current at one point in the network is equal to the ratio of current to voltage at another point in the network.

        Ratio Considered in Reciprocity Theorem
        In the Reciprocity Theorem, the ratio considered is the ratio of voltage to current. This means that the voltage at one point in the network divided by the current at that same point is equal to the current at another point in the network divided by the voltage at that point.
        Therefore, the correct answer is option 'A) Voltage to current'.
        By understanding and applying the Reciprocity Theorem in electrical network analysis, engineers can simplify calculations and determine the relationship between different points in a network more efficiently.
        Overall, the Reciprocity Theorem plays a crucial role in analyzing electrical networks and understanding the interrelationship between voltage and current at different points within the network.

        The circuit shown in figure was at steady state for t < 0 with switch at position ‘A’. The switch is thrown to position ‘B’ at time t = 0. The voltage across the 10 ohm resistor at time t = 0+ is ________V.
          Correct answer is between '-31,-29'. Can you explain this answer?

          At t < 0 the circuit was in steady state and switch at ‘A’
          The current drawn by circuit i
          Current through the inductor I(0-)
          Immediately after t > 0 the circuit will be the current through Inductor I(0-) = I(0+)
          at t= 0+
          V = I(0+) × 10Ω
          = -3 × 10 = -30V

          The network function (3s2 + 8s)/(s + 1)(s + 3) represents
          • a)
            RC impedance
          • b)
            RL impedance
          • c)
            LC impedance
          • d)
            None of the mentioned
          Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

          Vertex Academy answered
          The singularity nearest to origin is a zero. So it may be RL impedance or RC admittance function. Because of (D) option it is required to check that it is a valid RC admittance function. The poles and zeros interlace along the negative real axis. The residue of Yrc(s)/s is positive.

          An RL circuit has a resistance of 3 ohms and a reactance of 4 ohms, the impedance of the circuit is
          • a)
            5 ohms
          • b)
            7 ohms
          • c)
            1 ohm
          • d)
            1.33 ohms
          Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

          Pooja Patel answered
          Concept:
          For a series RL circuit, the net impedance is given by:
          Z = R + j (XL)
          XL = Inductive Reactance given by:
          XL = ωL
          The magnitude of the impedance is:
          Calculation:
          With R = 3 Ω and XL = 4 Ω, we get:
          |Z| = 5 Ω
           

          In the circuit shown in the given figure, the switch’s is open for a long time and closed at t = 0.
            Correct answer is '-6'. Can you explain this answer?

            Pooja Patel answered
            At t < 0, the circuit will be at steady-state and the capacitor will be open-circuited as there is a DC current source.
            For an open-circuited capacitor, the current from the 6 A source will be distributed equally between the two branches with 6 Ω and 2+4 = 6 Ω resistances.
            ∴ The current through the 4 Ω resistor will be 3 A.
            The charge stored by the capacitor before the switch is just open will be:
            Vc(0-) = 4 × 3 = 12 V
            At t = 0+, all the current from the 6 A source will follow the short circuit path. The circuit will be redrawn as shown:
            The capacitor can be replaced with a voltage source of 12 V. The current I will then be:

            Chapter doubts & questions for Transient Analysis in AC & DC Circuits - Network Theory (Electric Circuits) 2025 is part of Electrical Engineering (EE) exam preparation. The chapters have been prepared according to the Electrical Engineering (EE) exam syllabus. The Chapter doubts & questions, notes, tests & MCQs are made for Electrical Engineering (EE) 2025 Exam. Find important definitions, questions, notes, meanings, examples, exercises, MCQs and online tests here.

            Chapter doubts & questions of Transient Analysis in AC & DC Circuits - Network Theory (Electric Circuits) in English & Hindi are available as part of Electrical Engineering (EE) exam. Download more important topics, notes, lectures and mock test series for Electrical Engineering (EE) Exam by signing up for free.

            Top Courses Electrical Engineering (EE)