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Which component uses a resistor symbol with an adjustable contact?

Variable resistor.

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  1. Variable capacitor
  2. Variable resistor ✔
  3. Variable inductor

Why: A resistor zigzag with an arrow contact on it is a variable resistor. On the exam, it is component 9 in Figure T-2.

Huh, didn't know that: A variable resistor used with two terminals is often called a rheostat.

The dad joke
Why is a variable resistor never bored? It can always change its mind.
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References

Answer: Variable resistor. A resistor zigzag with an arrow contact on it is a variable resistor. On the exam, it is component 9 in Figure T-2.

  1. NCVEC 2026-2030 Technician Question Pool, T6C08 ncvec.org/downloads/2026-2030%20Technician%20Pool%20and%20Syllabus%20Public%20Release%20Feb%2019%202026.pdf
    C. Variable resistor
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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