Learning Path
Question & Answer1
Understand Question2
Review Options3
Learn Explanation4
Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
The output saturates to the maximum or minimum voltage
B
The op-amp continues to amplify the signal
C
The output voltage becomes zero
D
The op-amp resets automatically
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
When an op‑amp is driven harder than its supply rails, its output cannot rise above the positive rail or drop below the negative rail. Instead of continuing to increase, the output voltage is “clamped” or “saturated” at a value just a few millivolts below the rail because the internal transistors can no longer source or sink more current. This causes the output waveform to flatten at the rail level, producing distortion or clipping in the signal. For example, if an op‑amp powered from ±12 V is commanded to output 15 V, the actual output will settle near 11. 5 V and stay there until the input drive changes.
Detailed Explanation
When the output tries to go beyond the supply rails, the amplifier can no longer increase or decrease the voltage. Other options are incorrect because The idea that the op‑amp keeps amplifying ignores the fact that it cannot supply voltage beyond its power rails; The output does not become zero automatically.
Key Concepts
Op-Amp Saturation
Output Limitations
Signal Clipping
Topic
Op-Amp Output Saturation
Difficulty
easy level question
Cognitive Level
understand
Practice Similar Questions
Test your understanding with related questions
1
Question 1What happens to the output of an operational amplifier (op-amp) when the input signal exceeds the power supply voltage, leading to output saturation?
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Question 2An op-amp is used in a circuit where the input voltage exceeds the power supply limits. Which of the following outcomes best describes what occurs due to output saturation?
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Question 3When an op-amp reaches its output limits and cannot increase the output voltage further, it is said to be in __________.
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Question 4You are designing a simple audio amplifier using an op-amp. If the input signal exceeds the supply voltage limits of the op-amp, what is the most likely result of this situation?
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Question 5What happens to the output of an operational amplifier (op-amp) when the input signal exceeds the power supply voltage, leading to output saturation?
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6
Question 6What happens to the output of an operational amplifier (op-amp) when the input signal exceeds the power supply voltage, leading to output saturation?
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7
Question 7An op-amp is used in a circuit where the input voltage exceeds the power supply limits. Which of the following outcomes best describes what occurs due to output saturation?
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8
Question 8When an op-amp reaches its output limits and cannot increase the output voltage further, it is said to be in __________.
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9
Question 9You are designing a simple audio amplifier using an op-amp. If the input signal exceeds the supply voltage limits of the op-amp, what is the most likely result of this situation?
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Question 10What occurs when an op-amp output exceeds its power supply voltage limits?
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