Inductance

Definition

Inductance is a property of an electrical conductor that opposes a change in current. It is measured in henrys (H) and results from the magnetic field generated by the current flowing through the conductor.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Inductance is denoted by the symbol $L$ and its unit is the henry (H).
2. The inductance of a coil increases with more turns, greater coil area, and higher permeability of the core material.
3. Self-inductance occurs when a changing current in a circuit induces an electromotive force (EMF) in the same circuit.
4. Mutual inductance refers to how one coil can induce EMF in another nearby coil through its changing magnetic field.
5. The formula for inductive reactance is $X_L = 2\pi f L$, where $f$ is the frequency and $L$ is the inductance.

Review Questions

• What factors affect the inductance of a coil?
• How does self-inductance differ from mutual inductance?
• What is the formula for calculating inductive reactance?

Related terms

Electromotive Force (EMF):

The voltage generated by either chemical reactions or by varying magnetic fields.

Inductive Reactance:

$X_L = 2\pi f L$, representing the opposition to alternating current due to inductance.

Henry (H): The unit of measurement for inductance, defined as one weber per ampere.