Question

Thermal runaway is_________

(a) an uncontrolled positive feedback

(b) a controlled positive feedback

(c) an uncontrolled negative feedback

(d) a controlled negative feedback

I had been asked this question in an interview for job.

My doubt stems from Thermal Runaway topic in section Transistor Biasing and Thermal Stabilization of Electronic Devices & Circuits

Answer 1

The correct option is (a) an uncontrolled positive feedback

To elaborate: Thermal runaway is a self destruction process in which an increase in temperature creates such a condition which in turn increases the temperature again. This uncontrolled rise in temperature causes the component to get damaged.