What is an example of a resistive load?

• A. A light bulb
• B. A transformer
• C. An electric motor
• D. A capacitor

Answer: (A)

A light bulb serves as an excellent example of a resistive load because it converts electrical energy into light and heat through resistance. In resistive loads, the power consumed is primarily due to the resistance in the circuit, and the current flows directly proportional to the voltage applied, following Ohm’s Law (V = IR). A light bulb demonstrates these principles as it heats up and emits light when current passes through its filament, effectively illustrating the characteristics of a resistive load in electrical circuits.

In contrast, other options like a transformer or an electric motor involve inductive elements, where the reaction to the magnetic fields and the energy consumption behaves differently than that of a purely resistive load. Capacitors also store and release energy rather than consuming it as heat like resistive loads do, making them non-resistive in nature.