How is a resistor represented in a schematic diagram in the US?

How is a resistor represented in a schematic diagram in the US?

• A. Rectangle
• B. Zigzag line
• C. Circle
• D. Arrow

Answer: (B)

In US schematic practice, a resistor is drawn as a zigzag line. This distinctive jagged shape is the standard symbol that immediately identifies a resistance element on a diagram and helps distinguish it from other components at a glance. While other conventions exist internationally—for example, a resistor may be drawn as a rectangle in some European styles—the US standard uses the zigzag. A circle is not used to represent a resistor (circles are typically for sources or visible indicators in different contexts), and an arrow is associated with direction or adjustment for certain components, not the fixed resistor symbol. If you ever see a resistor described as adjustable, you’ll encounter an arrow indicating that the value can be varied, but the underlying element is still the resistor symbol.

In US schematic practice, a resistor is drawn as a zigzag line. This distinctive jagged shape is the standard symbol that immediately identifies a resistance element on a diagram and helps distinguish it from other components at a glance. While other conventions exist internationally—for example, a resistor may be drawn as a rectangle in some European styles—the US standard uses the zigzag. A circle is not used to represent a resistor (circles are typically for sources or visible indicators in different contexts), and an arrow is associated with direction or adjustment for certain components, not the fixed resistor symbol. If you ever see a resistor described as adjustable, you’ll encounter an arrow indicating that the value can be varied, but the underlying element is still the resistor symbol.