# E7H04 - How is positive feedback supplied in a Colpitts oscillator?

**URL:** <https://forum.openhamprep.com/t/e7h04-how-is-positive-feedback-supplied-in-a-colpitts-oscillator/1426>\
**Category:** Extra Questions\
**Created:** [January 2, 2026, 7:53pm UTC](https://forum.openhamprep.com/t/e7h04-how-is-positive-feedback-supplied-in-a-colpitts-oscillator/1426 "2026-01-02T19:53:30Z")\
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**Post date:** [January 2, 2026, 7:53pm UTC](https://forum.openhamprep.com/t/e7h04-how-is-positive-feedback-supplied-in-a-colpitts-oscillator/1426/1 "2026-01-02T19:53:30Z")

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## 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**

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## 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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