Question:medium

A transistor is used in common-emitter configuration. Given its $\alpha = 0.9$, calculate the change in collector current when the base current changes by $2\mu \mathrm{A}$.}

Show Hint

$\beta = \frac{\alpha}{1-\alpha}$ and $\Delta I_C = \beta \Delta I_B$.
Updated On: May 3, 2026
  • $1\mu \mathrm{A}$
  • $0.9\mu \mathrm{A}$
  • $30\mu \mathrm{A}$
  • $18\mu \mathrm{A}$
Show Solution

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

To solve the problem, we need to find the change in collector current when the base current of a transistor changes, given that the transistor is in a common-emitter configuration.

The relationship between the base current (\(I_B\)), emitter current (\(I_E\)), and collector current (\(I_C\)) in a transistor is defined using the parameters \(\alpha\) (common base current gain) and \(\beta\) (common-emitter current gain).

For a transistor, \(\alpha\) and \(\beta\) are related by the equation:

\(\alpha = \frac{\beta}{\beta + 1}\)

We know \(\alpha = 0.9\). Solve for \(\beta\):

\(0.9 = \frac{\beta}{\beta + 1}\)

\(0.9(\beta + 1) = \beta\)

\(0.9\beta + 0.9 = \beta\)

\(0.1\beta = 0.9\)

\(\beta = \frac{0.9}{0.1} = 9\)

Thus, the common-emitter current gain, \(\beta = 9\).

In a common-emitter configuration, the change in collector current \(\Delta I_C\) is given by:

\(\Delta I_C = \beta \times \Delta I_B\)

Given that the change in base current \(\Delta I_B = 2 \mu A\), substitute the values:

\(\Delta I_C = 9 \times 2 \mu A = 18 \mu A\)

Thus, the change in collector current when the base current changes by \(2 \mu A\) is \(18 \mu A\).

Therefore, the correct answer is:

$18\mu \mathrm{A}$

Was this answer helpful?
0

Top Questions on Semiconductor electronics: materials, devices and simple circuits