Question map
DC current can be controlled by which one of the following components?
Explanation
Direct current (DC) can be controlled primarily by resistance. According to Ohm's law, the current through a resistor is inversely proportional to its resistance; thus, increasing resistance decreases the current for a given voltage [3]. In DC circuits, components like rheostats or variable resistors are specifically used to regulate current flow [3]. While impedance is a broader term that includes resistance and reactance, reactance (from capacitance and inductance) only opposes current in alternating current (AC) circuits [t1][t3]. In a steady-state DC circuit, a capacitor acts as an open circuit (infinite resistance) after charging, effectively blocking current rather than controlling it, and an inductor acts as a short circuit (zero resistance) [t1][t6]. Therefore, resistance is the fundamental component used for the active control and regulation of DC current [t4].
Sources
- [1] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 11: Electricity > What you have learnt > p. 192
- [3] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 11: Electricity > 11.6 RESISTANCE OF A SYSTEM OF RESISTORS > p. 181