ASVAB/MEPS Test Prep #2

Kirchhoff's Rules

Principles used to analyze circuits by considering the conservation of charge and energy

Ignition Switch

Device that connects the battery to the ignition system for engine start-up and later disconnects it

Parallel Circuit

A closed loop with multiple branches where total current splits among the branches

Reluctor

Rotating wheel with teeth on the distributor shaft that generates timing pulses

Dependent System

A consistent system with infinitely many solutions representing the same line

Ohm's Law

Principle used to analyze circuits by relating voltage, current, and resistance

Consistent System

A set of equations that has at least one solution

Primary Coil Winding

Low-voltage coil that creates the magnetic field inducing the high-voltage pulse in the secondary winding

Independent System

A consistent system with a single unique solution where lines intersect

Inconsistent System

A set of equations with no solution due to parallel lines

Distributor

Mechanism that distributes high-voltage pulses to spark plugs in the correct sequence

Series Circuit

A closed loop with one path for current where the same current flows through every component

Ignition System

Components that work together to generate the high-voltage pulse needed to start an engine

Pickup Coil

Component that detects the reluctor teeth and switches the primary winding on and off

Ignition Module

Component that processes sensor information and controls the on/off timing of the primary coil winding

Battery

Power source for the ignition circuit that supplies electricity to all loads when the engine is not running