Learning Path
Question & Answer1
Understand Question2
Review Options3
Learn Explanation4
Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
An op-amp will saturate when the output voltage exceeds the power supply voltage.
B
Saturation can occur even if the input signals are within the linear range.
C
An op-amp can output a voltage greater than its power supply voltage if it is designed for rail-to-rail output.
D
Clipping of the signal occurs when the output reaches either the maximum or minimum voltage limit.
E
Saturation can be avoided by using a feedback loop in the circuit.
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
When an op‑amp is forced to drive a voltage that is higher or lower than its supply rails, the output will clamp at the nearest rail and stay there until the input changes back; this is called saturation. Because the output can only swing between the supply voltages, any attempt to exceed those limits simply pushes the output to the rail voltage. The output current is also limited by the device’s internal current limit, so during saturation the output current will be the maximum the device can supply. For example, if a 5 V supply op‑amp is asked to output 12 V, the output will be stuck at +5 V until the input conditions change. Thus, true statements are that the output cannot exceed the supply rails, it will clamp at the rail voltage, and the output current is limited by the device’s current capability.
Detailed Explanation
An op‑amp saturates when its output tries to go beyond the supply voltage, so the first statement is right. Other options are incorrect because Some op‑amps can reach close to the supply rails, but they cannot output a voltage higher than the supply.
Key Concepts
Op-Amp Output Saturation
Signal Clipping
Feedback Mechanisms
Topic
Op-Amp Output Saturation
Difficulty
medium level question
Cognitive Level
understand
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