An inductive proximity sensor is actuated by
a) a metal object.
b) a nonconductive material.
c) a light beam.
d) any of these
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is a) a metal object.
Explanation:
An inductive proximity sensor is a type of sensor that detects the presence of metallic objects without making physical contact. It works based on the principle of electromagnetic induction. The sensor consists of a coil and an oscillator that generates an electromagnetic field. When a metallic object (typically ferrous or non-ferrous) enters this electromagnetic field, it causes changes in the inductance of the coil, which is then detected by the sensor’s circuitry.
Inductive proximity sensors operate through the interaction between the magnetic field generated by the coil in the sensor and the conductive properties of metals. When a metal object enters the electromagnetic field, eddy currents are induced in the metal, which alters the coil’s inductance. This change in inductance is detected, and the sensor sends a signal to indicate the presence of the metal object.
Why other options are incorrect:
- b) Nonconductive material: Inductive sensors cannot detect nonconductive materials, such as plastics, wood, or glass, because these materials do not interact with the electromagnetic field in the same way metals do. Non-conductive materials do not induce the eddy currents that are necessary for the sensor to detect them.
- c) Light beam: Light-based sensors, such as optical sensors or photoelectric sensors, are used to detect light or objects that interrupt a light beam. Inductive sensors, however, are not sensitive to light and cannot detect objects based on optical properties.
- d) Any of these: This option is incorrect because inductive sensors are specifically designed to detect metal objects. They do not respond to non-conductive materials or light beams.
In summary, inductive proximity sensors are designed to detect metallic objects by utilizing the properties of electromagnetic induction, making option (a) the correct answer.