What is the primary purpose of a single-stage amplifier? a) To increase bandwidth b) To increase power c) To increase signal strength d) To decrease noise
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is c) To increase signal strength.
A single-stage amplifier is an electronic device designed primarily to increase the amplitude of an input signal. Its main function is to take a weak input signal and produce a stronger output signal without significantly altering the original waveform’s characteristics. This amplification makes the signal more usable for further processing or transmission.
Amplifiers work by using active components such as transistors or vacuum tubes to boost the voltage, current, or power of a signal. In the case of a single-stage amplifier, there is only one amplification element or circuit stage involved. This simplicity limits the overall gain compared to multi-stage amplifiers but also means fewer components, which can lead to lower cost and simpler design.
The key role of a single-stage amplifier is to improve the signal strength. This makes it easier to process the signal in subsequent circuits, such as filters, modulators, or power amplifiers. Without sufficient signal strength, the subsequent stages may not operate correctly or may introduce errors.
Although amplifiers can affect bandwidth, noise, and power, these are not the primary goals of a single-stage amplifier. Increasing bandwidth (option a) is usually a concern for specialized amplifier designs, such as wideband amplifiers. Increasing power (option b) is often the goal of power amplifiers, which may have multiple stages and are designed to drive loads like speakers or antennas. Decreasing noise (option d) is more about careful circuit design and noise reduction techniques rather than the basic function of a single-stage amplifier.
In summary, a single-stage amplifier mainly serves to increase the signal strength by amplifying the input signal’s voltage or current, allowing the signal to be more effectively used in further electronic processing.