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Question

Which component in a thermal relay is responsible for detecting temperature changes?

This question was previously asked in
RRB NTPC 2024 Undergraduate CBT 1 Question Paper (29-Aug-2025) (Shift 1)
The correct answer is

Bimetallic element

The correct answer is Bimetallic element.

A thermal relay uses a bimetallic element as its temperature sensing component. A bimetallic element is a strip of metal composed of two different metals with different coefficients of thermal expansion. When the temperature changes, one metal expands or contracts more than the other, causing the strip to bend. This bending action is used to activate or deactivate the relay's contacts.

Let's examine why the other options are incorrect:

  • Electromagnet: Electromagnets are used in many relays, but not for temperature sensing. They are used to actuate the contacts based on an electrical signal.
  • Transformer: Transformers are used for changing voltage levels, not for sensing temperature.
  • Resistor: While resistors can change their resistance with temperature (thermistors), a typical thermal relay uses a bimetallic element for its direct mechanical action in response to temperature change.

Therefore, the bimetallic element is the key component responsible for detecting temperature changes within a thermal relay.

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