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Calculating Inductive Reactance

Inductive Reactance Formula:

\[ X_L = 2 \pi f L \]

Hz
H

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1. What is Inductive Reactance?

Inductive reactance (XL) is the opposition that an inductor presents to alternating current. It increases with frequency and inductance, measured in ohms (Ω).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the inductive reactance formula:

\[ X_L = 2 \pi f L \]

Where:

Explanation: The reactance increases linearly with both frequency and inductance. At DC (0 Hz), the reactance is zero.

3. Importance of Inductive Reactance

Details: Understanding inductive reactance is crucial for designing AC circuits, filters, and understanding how inductors behave in different frequency ranges.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter frequency in Hz and inductance in Henrys. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What happens to reactance at DC?
A: At 0 Hz (DC), inductive reactance is 0 Ω, meaning inductors act as short circuits to DC.

Q2: How does reactance affect current?
A: Higher reactance means less current will flow for a given AC voltage (Ohm's Law: I = V/XL).

Q3: What's the relationship with capacitive reactance?
A: Capacitive reactance (XC) decreases with frequency, opposite to inductive reactance.

Q4: Why 2π in the formula?
A: The 2π factor converts frequency in Hz to angular frequency in radians per second (ω = 2πf).

Q5: What about real inductors?
A: Real inductors also have some resistance and parasitic capacitance that affect their behavior.

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