Which property is desirable for a material used as an electric heating element?

Options

  • A. High electrical resistance
  • B. Very low melting point
  • C. Very low resistance
  • D. More than one of the above
  • E. None of the above

Correct Answer (Detailed Explanation is Below)

A. High electrical resistance

Detailed Explanation

High electrical resistance is desirable for a heating element because more electrical energy can be converted into heat for a given current. The material should also have a high melting point and resistance to oxidation. Nichrome satisfies these requirements reasonably well and is therefore widely used in electrical heating appliances.