What is indicated by a silver band on a resistor?

A silver band on a resistor indicates a tolerance of 10%. The tolerance of a resistor is the degree to which its actual resistance can vary from its stated value. In the four-band color coding system commonly used for resistors, the first two bands represent significant digits, the third band indicates the multiplier, and the last band represents tolerance.

The value of the tolerance bands are standardized: a silver band corresponds to a tolerance of 10%, while a gold band indicates 5%. The other options express tolerance values that are not represented by a silver band. Therefore, recognizing a silver band on a resistor is essential for determining that it has a 10% tolerance, meaning the actual resistance could vary by up to 10% above or below its rated value.