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Difficulty: EasyInductors and Transformers

Which of the following best describes the primary function of an inductor in an electronic circuit?

  1. Opposing changes in electric current by storing energy in a magnetic fieldAnswer
  2. B
    Opposing changes in voltage by storing energy in an electrostatic field
  3. C
    Converting alternating current (AC) directly into steady direct current (DC)
  4. D
    Stepping up direct current (DC) voltage without requiring a fluctuating magnetic flux

Answer

Opposing changes in electric current by storing energy in a magnetic field
An inductor is an electrical component designed to store energy within an electromagnetic field generated by current flowing through its coils. Due to self-inductance, it produces an opposing electromotive force whenever current changes, thereby resisting rapid current variations.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the fundamental physical construction and behavior of an inductor.
An inductor is made of wire coiled around a core (air, iron, or ferrite).
When electric current passes through the coil, Ampere's law dictates that a magnetic field develops around the conductor.
2
Determine how the component reacts to dynamic circuit conditions.
According to Lenz's Law and Faraday's Law of Induction, any change in current produces a counter-electromotive force (back EMF) that opposes that change.
This property gives inductors their key application as chokes and energy storage devices in magnetic fields.

Key Concept

Inductors store energy in a magnetic field and oppose changes in electric current.
Estimated Time:40s
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Topics

Inductors and Transformers

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