Which of the following options is correct for an open-loop configuration of an op-amp?

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RRB JE CBT 2 (Electronics Engineering) ReExam Official Paper (Held On: 04 Jun, 2025)

Answer 1

Explanation:

An open-loop configuration of an operational amplifier (op-amp) refers to a setup in which there is no feedback connection between the output and the input of the op-amp. In this configuration, the op-amp operates with its inherent gain, which is extremely high, typically in the range of tens of thousands to millions.
In an open-loop configuration, the op-amp amplifies the voltage difference between its inverting input (-) and non-inverting input (+). The gain of the op-amp in this configuration is called the open-loop gain (denoted as A_OL). Since the open-loop gain is extremely high, even a small input voltage difference results in a very large output voltage, typically driving the op-amp to saturation (either the positive or negative supply voltage).

Characteristics of Open-Loop Configuration:

Very High Gain: The open-loop voltage gain of an op-amp is extremely high, typically ranging from 10⁴ to 10⁷.
No Feedback: There is no feedback loop connecting the output to the input. This lack of feedback makes the configuration highly sensitive to input voltage changes.
Non-Linear Operation: Due to the high gain, the output voltage often saturates at either the positive or negative supply voltage, depending on the polarity of the input voltage difference.