Updated: Dec 9, 2025 | Source: 2024-2028 Question Pool | Topic: E7G
E7G02E7G

What is the frequency response of the circuit in E7-3 if a capacitor is added across the feedback resistor?

Deep Dive: E7G02

The correct answer is B: Low-pass filter. When a capacitor is added across the feedback resistor in an op-amp circuit (like the inverting amplifier in Figure E7-3), the circuit becomes a low-pass filter. The capacitor provides frequency-dependent feedback that reduces gain at higher frequencies. At low frequencies, the capacitor has high reactance and doesn't significantly affect the circuit, so the gain is determined by the resistor ratio (RF/R1). At high frequencies, the capacitor's reactance decreases, shunting the feedback resistor and reducing the gain. This creates a low-pass response - low frequencies pass through with full gain, while high frequencies are attenuated. The cutoff frequency depends on the capacitor value and feedback resistor value.

Why Other Answers Are Wrong

Option A: Incorrect. A high-pass filter would require the capacitor in a different position (typically in series with the input, not across the feedback resistor). Option C: Incorrect. A band-pass filter requires both high-pass and low-pass characteristics, typically requiring more components than just a capacitor across the feedback resistor. Option D: Incorrect. A notch filter (band-reject) requires a more complex circuit, typically with both capacitors and inductors or multiple op-amps.

Exam Tip

Capacitor across feedback = Low-pass filter. Remember: Adding a capacitor across the feedback resistor in an op-amp creates a low-pass filter that attenuates high frequencies.

Memory Aid

**C**apacitor **A**cross **F**eedback = **L**ow-**P**ass (think 'CAF = LP' = Capacitor Across Feedback = Low-Pass)

Real-World Example

You're building an audio amplifier and want to filter out high-frequency noise above 3 kHz. You add a capacitor across the feedback resistor in your op-amp circuit. The capacitor creates a low-pass filter that passes audio frequencies below 3 kHz with full gain, while attenuating frequencies above 3 kHz. This reduces high-frequency noise and interference in your audio signal.

Source & Coverage

Question Pool: 2024-2028 Question Pool

Subelement: E7G

Reference: FCC Part 97.3

Key Concepts

Low-pass filter Op-amp filter Capacitor feedback Frequency response

Verified Content

Question from the official FCC Extra Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the E7G topic.