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ASVAB · Components and Devices

What is the function of a resistor in a circuit?

Reviewed by Jordan Morley, Editorial Lead at 247SimpleTests. Written by the 247SimpleTests Editorial Team from the official source material cited on every question.

Correct answer

To oppose/limit the flow of electric current

  1. A To oppose/limit the flow of electric current
  2. B To produce light
  3. C To store energy
  4. D To amplify signals

Why this is the answer

A RESISTOR OPPOSES (limits) the flow of electric CURRENT, controlling how much current flows and dropping voltage in a circuit. ASVAB Electronics Information tests components. Resistance is measured in OHMS (Ω). Resistors protect components, set current levels, and divide voltage. Other components: CAPACITOR (stores electrical energy); INDUCTOR (stores energy in a magnetic field, opposes current changes); TRANSISTOR (amplifies/switches); DIODE (allows current one direction). Knowing the resistor limits/opposes current is fundamental, commonly tested electronics knowledge.
Source: ASVAB Electronics Information — Resistors

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About this topic: Components and Devices

Components and devices questions cover what resistors, capacitors, inductors, diodes, transistors, transformers, fuses and switches do, and their schematic symbols. Recognising a symbol and naming its job is most of the section. This is one of 19 Electronics Information questions on components and devices, each with a full explanation on a single study page.

New to this exam? Our ASVAB exam guide explains the format, scoring, and how to prepare.

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