A wire-wound resistor is made by winding a piece of resistive wire around a ceramic core.

• A. False
• B. True
• C. Cannot be determined
• D. Not applicable

Answer: (B)

The fact being tested is how a wire-wound resistor is constructed. A wire-wound resistor uses a length of resistive wire—such as nichrome—wrapped around or wound on a ceramic core (a former). The ceramic core provides a strong, insulating support and good heat resistance, allowing the winding to stay intact and the device to handle power without overheating. The resistance comes from the total length and properties of the resistive wire, so winding more turns increases resistance while maintaining a compact package. This method is a classic, reliable way to achieve high wattage ratings and precise resistance values, which is why describing a wire-wound resistor as made by winding resistive wire around a ceramic core is accurate.