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Inductance

Definition

Inductance is the property of an electrical circuit that opposes changes in current flow. It is caused by the presence of an inductor (a coil of wire) in the circuit.

Analogy

Imagine you're riding a bicycle uphill. As you pedal harder to increase your speed, the resistance from gravity tries to slow you down. Similarly, inductance resists changes in current flow by generating its own opposing voltage.

Related terms

Inductor: A passive electronic component consisting of a coil of wire that stores energy in its magnetic field.

Self-inductance: The phenomenon where changing current through an inductor induces a voltage across itself.

Mutual Inductance: The phenomenon where changing current through one coil induces a voltage across another nearby coil.



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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.