The maximum instantaneous value measured from zero value is known as

Question

Examoogle · Accepted Answer

Peak value

Explanation: The peak value, also known as the amplitude or crest value, is the maximum instantaneous value of an alternating quantity (voltage or current) measured from the zero reference line. In a sinusoidal waveform, it represents the highest point reached in either the positive or negative half-cycle.

Working Principle: In an AC circuit defined by $v(t) = V_m \sin(\omega t)$, $V_m$ is the peak value. This magnitude is reached when the sine function equals 1 or -1, representing the point of maximum displacement from the equilibrium (zero) axis during one complete cycle.

Key Formulas: $v(t) = V_m \sin(\omega t)$ — Instantaneous voltage of an AC signal; $V_{rms} = \frac{V_m}{\sqrt{2}}$ — Relation between RMS and Peak value for a sine wave

Key Points: Peak value is defined as the maximum displacement of a wave from its mean position.; For a pure sine wave, the peak value is always greater than the RMS value.; Peak-to-Peak value is the total swing from the positive peak to the negative peak ($2V_m$).; It is a critical parameter for calculating the dielectric strength required for electrical insulation.

Advantages: Used to define the insulation limit of devices.; Essential for specifying voltage ratings for capacitors.

Disadvantages: Does not represent the average power delivered by the circuit.; Can be misleading if the waveform is non-sinusoidal (requires form factor correction).

Applications: Insulation breakdown testing.; Design of peak detector circuits in electronics.

Additional Info: Peak-to-Peak value represents the full amplitude range, i.e., $V_{p-p} = V_{peak,positive} - V_{peak,negative}$.. Option B (Peak to Peak) measures the difference between maximum and minimum values, not the value from zero.

Answer: A is correct — The peak value is the maximum instantaneous displacement of a signal from its zero level.

Exam Tip: Always verify if the question asks for peak value (from zero) or peak-to-peak (span) to avoid silly errors in AC circuit analysis.

Related Questions

Discussion (0)