Question

If the input to an OP-AMP comparator is a sine wave, then the output is a

• A. Sine wave
• B. Triangular wave
• C. Square wave
• D. Trapezoidal wave

Hint:

An op-amp comparator produces a digital output (high or low saturation level) based on the comparison of two analog input voltages.
When a sinusoidal input is compared against a reference, the output switches states as the sinusoid crosses the reference, resulting in a square or rectangular wave.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The given problem involves understanding how an operational amplifier (OP-AMP) comparator functions. An OP-AMP comparator is a circuit that compares two voltages and outputs a digital signal indicating which is larger. In this scenario, one of the inputs is a sinusoidal wave.

When a sinusoidal input is applied, the OP-AMP comparator compares this input with a reference voltage, typically zero or another fixed voltage level. As the input sinusoidal wave intersects the reference voltage level, the output of the comparator changes state.

This results in a waveform that switches between high and low levels, based on whether the sine wave is above or below the reference voltage. This behavior generates a:

Square wave

The transformation from a sine wave to a square wave is due to the comparator’s inherent property of outputting a high or low level, depending on the relative magnitude of its inputs. Thus, the correct answer to the question is a square wave.