ABYC Marine Electrical Practice Exam

Which component creates a voltage drop in a circuit?

1. Resistor

2. Capacitor

3. Diode

4. Inductor

The correct answer is: Diode

The correct answer is a resistor, as it is the primary component in electrical circuits that creates a voltage drop. Resistors are specifically designed to oppose the flow of electric current, and when current flows through a resistor, it causes a drop in voltage according to Ohm’s law (V = IR), where V is voltage, I is current, and R is resistance. This voltage drop is essential for controlling the levels of voltage and current in various parts of a circuit to ensure the components operate safely and efficiently. While capacitors and inductors play roles in circuits by storing energy or managing current flows, they do not inherently create a voltage drop in the same controlled and straightforward manner as resistors. Diodes allow current to flow in one direction and can create a voltage drop across their terminals when conducting, but their primary function is rectification rather than voltage regulation or resistance. Thus, resistors are foundational components for establishing voltage drops to regulate circuit performance.