Question
How is positive feedback supplied in a Colpitts oscillator?
Answer Options
- A) Through a tapped coil
- B) Through link coupling
- C) Through a capacitive divider
- D) Through a neutralizing capacitor
Correct Answer: C
Explanation
An oscillator requires a positive feedback path from its output back to its input to sustain the oscillation. The Colpitts oscillator is a common \text{LC} oscillator that uses a resonant tank circuit to determine the frequency, and its unique feature is how the feedback voltage is derived from this tank circuit.
In a Colpitts oscillator, positive feedback is supplied through a capacitive divider. The tank circuit uses an inductor placed in parallel with two capacitors connected in series. The positive feedback voltage is derived from the junction of these two series-connected capacitors, providing the correct phase relationship and magnitude to maintain the oscillation.
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