IOWA (IA) Journeyman Electrician Exam, Exams of Technology

This exam certifies electricians at the journeyman level in Iowa. It covers practical electrical knowledge including installation, repair, and maintenance of electrical systems following the NEC and state codes. Topics include wiring methods, grounding, circuit protection, conduit bending, motor controls, and safety. The exam ensures journeyman electricians can work competently under supervision or independently where allowed. Passing grants journeyman electrician licensure in Iowa.

Typology: Exams

2024/2025

Available from 07/19/2025

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IOWA (IA) Journeyman Electrician Exam
Question 1. According to Ohm's Law, if the voltage across a resistor is 120V and the current flowing
through it is 10A, what is the resistance?
A) 12 ohms
B) 120 ohms
C) 12 kilohms
D) 10 ohms
Answer: A
Explanation: Ohm's Law states R = V / I. Substituting the values: R = 120V / 10A = 12 ohms.
Question 2. Which formula correctly calculates electrical power in watts when voltage and current are
known?
A) P = V × I
B) P = V / I
C) P = I² × R
D) P = V² / R
Answer: A
Explanation: Power (P) in watts is calculated as P = V × I, where V is voltage and I is current.
Question 3. In a series circuit with three resistors of 4Ω, 6Ω, and 8Ω, what is the total resistance?
A) 14Ω
B) 18Ω
C) 48Ω
D) 0.75Ω
Answer: B
Explanation: Total resistance in series is R_total = R1 + R2 + R3 = 4Ω + 6Ω + 8Ω = 18Ω.
Question 4. Which of the following best describes the main difference between AC and DC current?
A) AC flows in one direction only
B) DC changes direction periodically
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Question 1. According to Ohm's Law, if the voltage across a resistor is 120V and the current flowing through it is 10A, what is the resistance? A) 12 ohms B) 120 ohms C) 12 kilohms D) 10 ohms Answer: A Explanation: Ohm's Law states R = V / I. Substituting the values: R = 120V / 10A = 12 ohms. Question 2. Which formula correctly calculates electrical power in watts when voltage and current are known? A) P = V × I B) P = V / I C) P = I² × R D) P = V² / R Answer: A Explanation: Power (P) in watts is calculated as P = V × I, where V is voltage and I is current. Question 3. In a series circuit with three resistors of 4Ω, 6Ω, and 8Ω, what is the total resistance? A) 14Ω B) 18Ω C) 48Ω D) 0.75Ω Answer: B Explanation: Total resistance in series is R_total = R1 + R2 + R3 = 4Ω + 6Ω + 8Ω = 18Ω. Question 4. Which of the following best describes the main difference between AC and DC current? A) AC flows in one direction only B) DC changes direction periodically

C) AC alternates direction periodically D) DC is used only in high voltage applications Answer: C Explanation: AC (Alternating Current) changes direction periodically, whereas DC (Direct Current) flows in a single direction. Question 5. What is the primary purpose of a megohmmeter? A) Measure voltage B) Measure resistance of insulation C) Measure current D) Measure capacitance Answer: B Explanation: A megohmmeter is used to measure the resistance of insulation in electrical wiring and equipment. Question 6. Which of the following is a safe practice when using a multimeter to measure voltage? A) Connect the meter in series with the load B) Ensure the circuit is live before testing C) Use the correct voltage range and wear PPE D) Measure voltage with the leads disconnected from the circuit Answer: C Explanation: Always select the correct range and wear PPE to ensure safety when measuring voltage. Question 7. What is the principle behind electromagnetic induction? A) Voltage is generated when a conductor moves through a magnetic field B) Resistance decreases as temperature increases C) Magnetic flux remains constant in a coil D) Current produces a magnetic field that opposes the original magnetic source Answer: A

Explanation: Three-phase power provides more consistent power delivery, greater efficiency, and balanced loads. Question 11. Which type of wiring method is most suitable for outdoor residential applications to resist moisture? A) NM cable B) PVC conduit C) Flexible cord D) Metal raceway Answer: B Explanation: PVC conduit is suitable for outdoor use as it resists moisture and environmental elements. Question 12. Which article of the NEC covers the requirements for grounding and bonding? A) Article 250 B) Article 300 C) Article 400 D) Article 410 Answer: A Explanation: Article 250 of the NEC details the requirements for grounding and bonding. Question 13. Which conductor material is most commonly used for general wiring in residential applications? A) Copper B) Aluminum C) Steel D) Aluminum-clad steel Answer: A Explanation: Copper is the most common conductor material for residential wiring due to its excellent conductivity and durability.

Question 14. What is the purpose of a circuit breaker in an electrical system? A) To increase current flow B) To protect wiring from overcurrent conditions C) To step down voltage D) To provide a ground path Answer: B Explanation: Circuit breakers protect wiring and equipment by disconnecting power during overcurrent or short-circuit conditions. Question 15. What is the main function of a relay in an electrical control circuit? A) To convert AC to DC B) To amplify current C) To switch a circuit on or off using a low power signal D) To provide overcurrent protection Answer: C Explanation: A relay uses a low power control signal to switch a higher power circuit on or off. Question 16. Which of the following is an example of a non-contact voltage tester's primary use? A) Measure current flow B) Detect the presence of voltage without contact C) Measure resistance D) Test circuit continuity Answer: B Explanation: Non-contact voltage testers detect the presence of voltage without needing to touch the conductor, enhancing safety. Question 17. When calculating the load for a residential dwelling, which factor is typically considered? A) Number of appliances only B) Square footage and occupancy

Explanation: Article 406 addresses requirements for receptacles and cord connectors. Question 21. When selecting an overcurrent protection device for a motor circuit, what is the primary consideration? A) Continuous load current B) Motor's locked rotor current C) Voltage drop D) Conductor insulation type Answer: B Explanation: Overcurrent devices must be sized to handle the motor's locked rotor current to prevent nuisance tripping. Question 22. Which type of conduit is most suitable for underground installations? A) EMT B) PVC conduit C) GRC D) Flexible metal conduit Answer: B Explanation: PVC conduit is suitable for underground use due to its resistance to moisture and corrosion. Question 23. What is the main purpose of a disconnecting means for motors? A) To increase starting torque B) To isolate the motor for maintenance and emergency shutdown C) To reduce motor vibration D) To protect against overload Answer: B Explanation: A disconnecting means isolates the motor from power for safety during maintenance and emergency situations.

Question 24. Which article governs the installation of electric signs and outline lighting? A) Article 600 B) Article 525 C) Article 620 D) Article 700 Answer: A Explanation: Article 600 specifies requirements for electric signs and outline lighting installations. Question 25. In a three-phase motor, what does the term "balance" refer to? A) Equal voltage in all phases B) Equal current in all phases C) Equal power consumption D) All of the above Answer: D Explanation: Balance in a three-phase system involves equal voltage, current, and power across all phases. Question 26. Which type of circuit breaker provides both overcurrent and ground-fault protection? A) Standard circuit breaker B) Ground-fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) C) Arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) D) Combination AFCI/GFCI Answer: D Explanation: Combination AFCI/GFCI circuit breakers provide both arc-fault and ground-fault protection. Question 27. What is the primary purpose of a conduit body (e.g., elbow, T, or crossover)? A) To connect conduit runs and provide access for pulling conductors B) To serve as a junction box C) To reduce electromagnetic interference

Explanation: Explosion-proof fixtures are designed for hazardous locations to prevent ignition of flammable gases or vapors. Question 31. Which of the following is a key safety practice when working on energized circuits? A) Use insulated tools and PPE B) Work without locking out power C) Remove all protective gear to increase dexterity D) Test circuits with a non-contact tester only after starting work Answer: A Explanation: Using PPE and insulated tools minimizes risk when working on energized circuits. Question 32. Which electrical unit is used to measure energy consumption over time? A) Joule B) Watt C) Kilowatt-hour (kWh) D) Volt-ampere Answer: C Explanation: Kilowatt-hour (kWh) measures the energy consumed over a period. Question 33. Which material is most suitable for grounding conductors due to its high conductivity? A) Copper B) Aluminum C) Steel D) Brass Answer: A Explanation: Copper has high electrical conductivity, making it ideal for grounding conductors. Question 34. What is the typical purpose of a motor overload relay? A) To protect the motor from undercurrent

B) To protect the motor from overcurrent conditions C) To start the motor D) To switch the motor off during power outages Answer: B Explanation: Overload relays protect motors from damage caused by excessive current during overload conditions. Question 35. Which NEC article addresses requirements for emergency systems? A) Article 700 B) Article 600 C) Article 720 D) Article 708 Answer: A Explanation: Article 700 specifies the installation and requirements for emergency systems. Question 36. In a parallel circuit, how is the total resistance calculated? A) Sum of all resistances B) Reciprocal of the sum of reciprocals of resistances C) Average of resistances D) Resistance of the largest resistor Answer: B Explanation: Total resistance in parallel is calculated as the reciprocal of the sum of the reciprocals of individual resistances. Question 37. Which type of wiring is most suitable for underground residential distribution (URD)? A) NM cable B) Underground Feeder (UF) cable C) Open wiring D) Flexible cord

B) To support conduit C) To reduce electromagnetic interference D) To act as a conduit bender Answer: A Explanation: Pull boxes provide access for pulling and splicing conductors safely in conduit systems. Question 42. Which article of the NEC covers requirements for switchboards and panelboards? A) Article 408 B) Article 410 C) Article 430 D) Article 440 Answer: A Explanation: Article 408 addresses installation and use of switchboards and panelboards. Question 43. What is a key consideration when selecting conductors for a motor circuit? A) Conductors must be rated for the motor's full load current B) Conductors should be of aluminum only C) Conductors must be insulated with oil-resistant coating D) Conductors can be undersized if short-term operation is expected Answer: A Explanation: Conductors should be rated for the motor's full load current to prevent overheating and ensure safety. Question 44. What is the primary function of an arc-fault circuit interrupter (AFCI)? A) To protect against ground faults B) To detect and disconnect arcing faults in wiring C) To prevent overloads D) To reduce electromagnetic interference Answer: B

Explanation: AFCIs detect arcing faults that could lead to fires and disconnect power to prevent hazards. Question 45. Which of the following describes the main purpose of grounding in electrical systems? A) To prevent overcurrent B) To provide a low-resistance path to earth for fault currents C) To increase voltage D) To reduce power consumption Answer: B Explanation: Grounding provides a safe path for fault currents, reducing shock hazards. Question 46. For which type of occupancy is Article 517 of the NEC primarily written? A) Health care facilities B) Commercial garages C) Residential dwellings D) Industrial plants Answer: A Explanation: Article 517 addresses electrical requirements specific to health care facilities. Question 47. Which of the following is an example of a hazardous (classified) location? A) A storage room with no flammable vapors B) A gasoline pump island C) A typical office building D) A residential living room Answer: B Explanation: Gasoline pump islands are classified as Class I hazardous locations due to flammable vapors. Question 48. What is the main purpose of a lockout/tagout procedure? A) To prevent unauthorized access

Explanation: A starter connects the motor to power and provides overload protection, enabling safe operation. Question 52. Which type of wiring method is most suitable for rapid installation in commercial buildings? A) Cable tray systems B) Open wiring C) Knob and tube wiring D) Aluminum service entrance wire Answer: A Explanation: Cable tray systems allow for quick, organized wiring in commercial environments. Question 53. Which of the following is a common use for a switch in an electrical circuit? A) To control the flow of current B) To step up voltage C) To convert AC to DC D) To measure resistance Answer: A Explanation: Switches control the connection and disconnection of electrical circuits, enabling or disabling current flow. Question 54. What does the term "derating" refer to in electrical wiring? A) Increasing conductor capacity B) Reducing conductor current-carrying capacity due to conditions like bundling or high temperature C) Increasing insulation thickness D) Reducing voltage drop Answer: B Explanation: Derating reduces the allowable current in conductors under certain conditions to prevent overheating.

Question 55. Which type of motor is most commonly used in HVAC applications? A) Shaded pole motor B) PSC (Permanent Split Capacitor) motor C) Universal motor D) Synchronous motor Answer: B Explanation: PSC motors are commonly used in HVAC systems due to their efficiency and reliability. Question 56. Which article of the NEC covers requirements for transformers? A) Article 450 B) Article 430 C) Article 600 D) Article 700 Answer: A Explanation: Article 450 specifies installation, grounding, and protection requirements for transformers. Question 57. In electrical calculations, what is the purpose of the power factor? A) To measure energy consumption B) To quantify the phase difference between voltage and current C) To determine resistance D) To calculate voltage drop Answer: B Explanation: Power factor indicates how effectively electrical power is being used, considering phase difference. Question 58. Which safety equipment must be worn when working on live electrical circuits? A) Insulated gloves and face shield B) Steel-toed boots only C) Hard hat only

Question 62. What is the primary reason for using a properly sized grounding conductor? A) To reduce voltage B) To carry fault current safely to earth C) To increase circuit capacity D) To prevent overcurrent Answer: B Explanation: A properly sized grounding conductor safely conducts fault current to earth, preventing shock hazards. Question 63. Which article of the NEC covers requirements for conductors for general wiring? A) Article 310 B) Article 400 C) Article 250 D) Article 406 Answer: A Explanation: Article 310 specifies characteristics, ampacity, and installation requirements for conductors. Question 64. When is a GFCI required in residential wiring? A) In bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor receptacles B) Only in garages C) Only in commercial buildings D) In all circuits regardless of location Answer: A Explanation: GFCIs are required in areas with a higher risk of electric shock, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and outdoor receptacles. Question 65. What is the primary function of an overload relay? A) To protect motors from excessive current

B) To switch the motor on and off C) To reduce starting current D) To measure motor temperature Answer: A Explanation: Overload relays protect motors from damage due to excessive current during overload conditions. Question 66. Which type of lighting is most suitable for hazardous locations that require explosion-proof fixtures? A) Incandescent B) Fluorescent C) LED with explosion-proof housing D) Halogen Answer: C Explanation: Explosion-proof LED fixtures provide energy-efficient, safe lighting suitable for hazardous locations. Question 67. Which of the following describes the main purpose of an emergency system in an electrical installation? A) To provide backup power during outages B) To reduce energy consumption C) To control lighting D) To regulate voltage Answer: A Explanation: Emergency systems ensure critical loads remain powered during outages for safety and operational continuity. Question 68. In a residential setting, what is the typical size of a main service conductors for a 200-amp service? A) 2/0 AWG copper or 4/0 AWG aluminum B) 14 AWG