Answers to Electrical Engineering Question

Bank
1.1 Basic Circuit Analysis
1. AC vs. DC circuits: AC circuits use alternating current with components like
transformers; DC circuits use direct current with components like batteries.
2. Kirchhoff's Laws: KCL states total current entering a junction equals total current
leaving; KVL states total voltage around a loop equals zero.
3. Nodal vs. Mesh Analysis: Nodal analysis uses node voltages; mesh analysis uses loop
currents.
4. Ohm's Law: Voltage (V) equals current (I) times resistance (R), used to calculate circuit
parameters.
5. Resistance, Capacitance, Inductance: Resistance opposes current, capacitance stores
charge, inductance stores energy in magnetic fields.
6. Conductance: Conductance is the inverse of resistance, measured in siemens.
7. Ideal Sources: Ideal voltage source maintains constant voltage; ideal current source
maintains constant current.
8. Linear vs. Nonlinear Resistors: Linear resistors follow Ohm’s Law; nonlinear resistors
have varying resistance.
9. Active vs. Passive Components: Active components supply energy (e.g., batteries);
passive components consume energy (e.g., resistors).

1.2 Network Theorems

1. Superposition Theorem: Total response in a linear circuit is the sum of responses from
each independent source.
2. Norton’s vs. Thevenin’s Theorem: Norton’s uses a current source with parallel
resistance; Thevenin’s uses a voltage source with series resistance.
3. Maximum Power Transfer Theorem: Maximum power is transferred when load resistance
equals source resistance.
4. Source Transformation: Converts a voltage source with series resistance to a current
source with parallel resistance, or vice versa.
5. Dependent vs. Independent Sources: Independent sources have fixed values;
dependent sources vary based on circuit parameters.

1.3 Capacitors and Inductors

1. Capacitance in RC Circuit: Capacitance stores charge; in RC circuits, it charges via
resistor and discharges exponentially.
2. Energy in Capacitor: Energy is ½CV², where C is capacitance and V is voltage.
3. Inductance: Inductance (henry) opposes current change, creating magnetic fields.
4. Mutual Inductance: Energy transfer between inductors due to shared magnetic fields,
used in transformers.
1.4 AC Circuit Analysis
1. Phasors: Phasors represent AC signals as rotating vectors for easier analysis.
2. Series and Parallel Resonance: Resonance occurs when inductive and capacitive
reactances cancel, maximizing or minimizing impedance.
3. AC Circuits with Loads: Capacitive loads lead voltage; inductive loads lag voltage.
4. Three-Phase AC Systems: Analyzed using phasors, balanced loads, and Y or Delta
configurations.

2.1 Basic Conceptual

1. Semiconductor Device: Semiconductors control current; n-type has extra electrons, p-
type has holes.
2. Electrical vs. Electronics Devices: Electrical devices handle power; electronics devices
process signals.
3. Heat Sink Purpose: Heat sinks dissipate heat from components to prevent overheating.

2.2 Diode
1. Diode vs. Zener Diode: Diodes allow one-way current; Zener diodes regulate voltage in
reverse bias.
2. Forward Biasing: Forward biasing allows current flow in a pn junction by reducing the
barrier.
3. Diode Applications: Diodes are used in rectification, signal modulation, and protection
circuits.
4. Avalanche Breakdown: High reverse voltage causes a sudden increase in current in
diodes.
5. Depletion Region: A barrier region in diodes that prevents current flow until bias is
applied.

2.3 Bipolar Junction Transistor (BJT)

1. BJT Operation: BJT uses base current to control larger collector-emitter current.
2. NPN vs. PNP Transistor: NPN uses electrons; PNP uses holes for current flow.
3. BJT Signal Amplification: Small base current controls large collector current for
amplification.
4. Current Controlled Device: BJT’s output is controlled by base current.
5. Biasing Need: Biasing sets operating point for stable transistor amplification.

2.4 Operational Amplifier (Op-Amp)

1. Operational Amplifier: Op-amp amplifies voltage differences with high gain.
2. Ideal Op-Amp Characteristics: Infinite gain, infinite input impedance, zero output
impedance.
3. Integrator Circuit: Op-amp integrator converts input voltage to output integral over
time.
4. CMRR Significance: Common-mode rejection ratio measures op-amp’s ability to reject
common signals.
5. Slew Rate: Slew rate is the maximum rate of output voltage change in op-amps.

2.5 Field Effect Transistors

1. FET and MOSFET: FET (Field Effect Transistor) and MOSFET (Metal-Oxide-
Semiconductor FET) control current via electric fields.
2. BJT vs. FET: BJT is current-controlled; FET is voltage-controlled with higher input
impedance.
3. MOSFET Operation: MOSFET controls current with gate voltage, used in switching and
amplification.
4. MOSFET vs. BJT: MOSFETs have higher input impedance but slower switching than BJTs.
5. CMOS Applications: CMOS (Complementary MOSFET) is used in low-power logic
circuits.

2.6 Oscillators and 555 Timer

1. Oscillator Principle: Oscillators generate periodic signals using feedback loops.
2. Oscillator Applications: Used in signal generation, clocks, and communication systems.
3. 555 IC Applications: 555 IC is used for timers, oscillators, and pulse generation.

2.7 Power Electronic Devices

1. GTO vs. SCR: GTO can be turned off by gate signal; SCR cannot.
2. BJT vs. MOSFET Efficiency: MOSFETs are more efficient for high-frequency switching
than BJTs.
3. IGBT vs. MOSFET: IGBTs handle higher voltages; MOSFETs are faster for low-power
applications.

2.8 Power Converters

1. DC-DC Converter: Buck lowers voltage, boost raises voltage, buck-boost adjusts both.
2. PWM Control: PWM adjusts duty cycle to control output voltage in converters and
inverters.
3. MPPT in Solar: MPPT maximizes power extraction from solar panels by adjusting load.

3.1 Transformers
1. Transformer KVA Rating: Rated in KVA because losses depend on voltage and current.
2. No DC in Transformer: DC doesn’t induce changing magnetic flux for transformer
operation.
3. Parallel Operation Conditions: Same voltage ratio, polarity, and phase sequence.
4. Single-Phase Autotransformer: A transformer with a single winding for voltage step-
up/down.
5. Transformer Tests: Open circuit test measures core losses; short circuit test measures
copper losses.
6. Transformer Losses: Core (hysteresis, eddy current) and copper (I²R) losses.
7. Faraday’s and Lenz’s Laws: Faraday’s law links voltage to magnetic flux change; Lenz’s
law states induced current opposes flux change.

3.2 Motors and Generators

1. Capacitor in Induction Motor: Capacitor improves starting torque in single-phase
induction motors.
2. Star Delta Starter: Reduces starting current in induction motors by switching
connections.
3. Tap Changing: Adjusts transformer voltage ratio, used in power systems.
4. Synchronous vs. Induction Motor: Synchronous motors run at fixed speed; induction
motors slip.
5. Induction Motor Speed Control: V/f control, pole changing, or rotor resistance
adjustment.
6. Prime Mover: Device (e.g., turbine) that drives a generator.
7. High Starting Torque Motor: Series DC motor, used for heavy loads like cranes.
8. Voltage Regulation: Measures output voltage change; negative in capacitive loads due to
leading current.
9. Back EMF in DC Motor: Opposes applied voltage, regulating motor speed.
10. Alternator vs. Generator: Alternators produce AC; generators can produce AC or DC.
11. Induction Motor Tests: No-load and blocked rotor tests determine equivalent circuit
parameters.
12. Commutation: Process of current reversal in DC motor brushes to maintain torque.
13. Universal Motor: Runs on AC or DC, used in appliances like drills.
14. Torque Angle: Angle between rotor and stator fields, affecting motor torque.

4.1 Power Factor Improvement

1. Power Factor Component: Capacitors improve power factor, connected in parallel.
2. Power Factor Impact: Higher power factor improves transmission efficiency, reduces
costs.
3. Power Factor Calculation: At unity PF, apparent power equals real power (2000 W).
4. Capacitor Bank Type: Delta capacitor banks are preferred for 3-phase systems.
5. Synchronous Condenser: Synchronous motor used to adjust power factor; phase
advancer improves PF in motors.

4.2 Variable Loads and Load Flow

1. Base vs. Peak Load: Base load is constant; peak load is temporary, handled by gas
turbines.
2. Load Definitions: Average Load (total energy/time), Load Factor (average/max demand),
etc., with respective formulas.
3. Load-Flow Study: Analyzes power flow and voltage in a system.
4. Bus Types: Slack, voltage-controlled, and load buses.
5. Bus Quantities: Slack bus (V, δ known), voltage-controlled (V, P known), load bus (P, Q
known).
4.3 Faults of Power Line
1. Symmetrical Fault: Equal fault currents in all phases, e.g., three-phase short circuit.
2. Fault Current Limiters: Reactors or resistors limit short circuit currents.
3. Unsymmetrical Faults: Single line-to-ground, line-to-line, or double line-to-ground
faults.
4. Power System Faults: Symmetrical (3-phase) and unsymmetrical (LG, LL, LLG) faults.

4.4 Transmission and Distribution

1. Overhead Transmission Components: Conductors, insulators, towers, and ground wires.
2. Insulators Purpose: Prevent unwanted current flow in transmission lines.
3. String Efficiency: Ratio of actual to ideal voltage distribution in insulators; improved by
guard rings.
4. Corona: Ionization of air around conductors; reduced by larger conductors or bundles.
5. Sag: Conductor droop; zero sag is impossible due to weight and tension.
6. Skin Effect: Current flows near conductor surface, increasing resistance and costs.
7. Ferranti Effect: Voltage rise at receiving end in lightly loaded lines.
8. Transposition: Rotating conductor positions to balance impedances; voltage regulation
measures output stability.
9. Reactive Compensation: Adjusts reactive power; SCADA monitors, FACTS/STATCOM
control voltage.
10. HVDC vs. HVAC: HVDC is efficient for long distances, lower losses.
11. Veramara HVDC: Back-to-back HVDC link for interconnecting AC systems.
12. AC vs. DC Distribution: AC is standard; DC is used for specific applications like
microgrids.
13. Overhead vs. Underground: Overhead is cheaper; underground is more reliable.
14. Bangladesh Renewable Energy: Growing solar and wind energy, targeting 10% renewable
by 2030.

5.1 Circuit Breaker and Relay

1. Relay, Fuse, Circuit Breaker: Relay detects faults, fuse melts to break circuit, circuit
breaker interrupts current.
2. Protection Relay Types: Overcurrent, distance, and differential relays.
3. Grounding vs. Earthing: Grounding protects circuits; earthing connects to ground for
safety.
4. Pickup Value: Minimum current for relay activation.
5. Busbar Protection: Protects busbars using differential or high-impedance relays.
6. Circuit Breaker Terms: Arc Voltage (across contacts), Restriking Voltage (transient),
Recovery Voltage (after arc extinction).
7. Relay Terms: Pickup Value (activation threshold), Current Setting (relay sensitivity),
Plug/Time Setting Multiplier (adjust relay response).

5.2 Earthing
1. Earthing Types: Plate, pipe, and rod earthing.
2. Lightning Mechanism: Charge separation in clouds causes high-voltage discharge.
3. Surge Absorber: Absorbs voltage spikes; Ferranti surge absorber uses capacitors.

5.3 Protection of Power Line

1. Transmission vs. Distribution: Transmission uses high voltages (e.g., 132 kV in
Bangladesh); distribution uses lower voltages.
2. Skin Effect: Current concentrates on conductor surface, reducing efficiency.
3. Fault Limiting Devices: Reactors, fuses, and circuit breakers.
4. Overcurrent vs. Differential Relay: Overcurrent detects high current; differential detects
current imbalance.
5. CT and PT: Current Transformer (CT) measures current, Potential Transformer (PT)
measures voltage; CT secondary is shorted to prevent high voltage.
6. Current Limiting Reactor: Limits fault current in power systems.
7. Overvoltage Causes: Lightning, switching, or faults.
8. Busbar Maintenance: De-energize, inspect, and clean busbars.

5.4 Transformer, Alternator Protection

1. Alternator Faults: Stator faults, rotor faults, and unbalanced loading.
2. Unbalanced Loading: Unequal phase currents in alternators.
3. Buchholz Relay: Detects gas or oil flow in transformers due to faults.
4. Blackout: Complete loss of power in a transmission system.
5. Circulating Current: Unwanted current due to parallel alternator mismatch.
6. Isolator, Transformers: Isolator disconnects circuits; unit/auxiliary transformers step
down voltage.
7. Substation Protection: Relays, circuit breakers, and surge arresters.

6.1 Basic Conceptual

1. Modulation/Demodulation: Modulation encodes signals for transmission; demodulation
decodes them.
2. AM System: Amplitude modulation varies carrier amplitude with signal.
3. Baud vs. Bit Rate: Baud rate is symbols per second; bit rate is bits per second.
4. Analog vs. Digital Transmission: Analog is continuous; digital is discrete, less noise-
prone.
5. Attenuation and Interference: Attenuation is signal loss; interference is noise; reduced
by amplifiers and shielding.

6.2 Transmission Media/Channel

1. Guided vs. Unguided Media: Guided (e.g., cables) is wired; unguided (e.g., radio) is
wireless.
2. Higher SNR: Higher signal-to-noise ratio improves signal clarity.
3. Optical Fiber: Transmits light; has higher bandwidth than coaxial or copper.
4. Low-Pass vs. Band-Pass: Low-pass allows low frequencies; band-pass allows a frequency
range.
5. Baseband vs. Broadband: Microphone to recorder is baseband; modulated voice signals
are broadband.

6.3 Analog to Digital Conversion

1. ADC Steps: Sampling, quantization, and encoding.
2. Nyquist Rate: Minimum sampling rate (2x signal frequency) to avoid distortion.
3. Serial vs. Parallel Communication: Serial sends bits sequentially; parallel sends multiple
bits simultaneously.
4. Shannon Capacity, etc.: Capacity (max data rate), propagation delay (signal travel time),
latency (total delay), throughput (actual data rate).
5. Aliasing: Distortion from low sampling rate; avoided by sampling above Nyquist rate.

6.4 Mobile Cellular Communications

1. Duplexing: Duplexing allows two-way communication; TDD uses time slots, FDD uses
frequency bands.
2. Guard Bands: Prevent interference between frequency channels.
3. Handoff and Reuse: Handoff transfers calls; frequency reuse assigns channels to cells.
4. 2G, 3G, 4G Comparison: 4G uses advanced modulation, higher bandwidth, and faster
data rates.
5. Uplink vs. Downlink: Uplink is mobile to base; downlink is base to mobile, with different
frequencies.

7.1 Basic Conceptual

1. Flip-Flop vs. Latch: Flip-flops are edge-triggered; latches are level-triggered.
2. Gates: Basic (AND, OR), special (XOR), universal (NAND, NOR).
3. Register, Multiplexing: Register stores data; multiplexing combines signals,
demultiplexing separates them.
4. Gates with NAND/NOR: Combine NAND/NOR gates to mimic AND, OR, XOR logic.
5. Encoder/Decoder: Encoder converts inputs to coded output; decoder reverses it.
6. CMOS Pull-Up/Down: Pull-up (PMOS) connects to Vdd; pull-down (NMOS) connects to
ground.
7. Flip-Flop Circuits: JK, SR, D flip-flops store bits with specific truth tables.
8. Nibble, Byte, Word: Nibble (4 bits), Byte (8 bits), Word (16/32 bits).

8.1 Basic Conceptual

1. Open vs. Control Loop: Open loop has no feedback; control loop uses feedback for
stability.
2. Transfer Function: Ratio of output to input in a control system.
3. Feedback Components: Sensor, controller, and actuator in a feedback system.
4. Gain Margin: Measure of system stability, indicating distance from instability.
5. Pole/Zero: Poles determine system stability; zeros affect response shape.
6. Routh Hurwitz Criterion: Tests system stability using coefficient array.
7. System Stability: Stable (returns to equilibrium), marginally stable (oscillates), unstable
(diverges).
8. Damping: Reduces oscillations; damping ratio measures oscillation decay.