Question

Differentiate between inductive reactance, capacitive reactance and impedance of an ac circuit.

Answer 1

Inductive Reactance (X_L): Opposition from an inductor, calculated as X_L = 2πfL. It increases with frequency, causing the current to lag the voltage by 90°.

Capacitive reactance (XC): Opposition from a capacitor, calculated as XC = `1/(2 pi f C)`. It decreases with frequency, causing the current to lead the voltage by 90°.

Impedance (Z): The total resistance to current flow in an AC circuit, combining resistance and reactance, Z = `sqrt(R^2 + (X_L - X_C)^2)`.