310102jB Fundamentals of Alternating Current Part B 2025 (TF)

Impedance

Limits current and has a current-limiting effect in AC or DC circuits.

Resistive Circuit

A circuit where the total impedance is equal to the resistance, with no reactance.

Kirchoff's Voltage Law

The sum of the electrical potential differences (voltage) around any closed network is zero.

Inductive Reactance (XL)

Opposes changes in current in an AC circuit, calculated using the formula XL = 2πFL.

Capacitive Reactance (Xc)

Opposes changes in voltage in an AC circuit, calculated using the formula Xc = 1/(2πFC).

Series Circuit

A circuit configuration where components are connected along a single path.

Phasor Diagram

A graphical representation of the magnitude and phase of voltage and current in AC circuits.

Eddy Currents

Loops of electrical current induced within conductors by a changing magnetic field.

Skin Effect

The tendency of alternating current to distribute itself within a conductor so that the current density is greatest near the surface.

Total Inductance (LT)

The sum of individual inductances when inductors are connected in series.

Voltage Drops across Capacitors

In a capacitive circuit, voltage drops are in phase with the current but lag it by 90 degrees.

Reactance Triangle

A graphical representation of the relationship between resistance, inductive reactance, and capacitive reactance in an AC circuit.

Dielectric Loss

Energy loss due to stress in insulation materials when exposed to alternating electric fields.

Resonant Circuit

An AC circuit where the inductive and capacitive reactances are equal, leading to maximum current flow.

Phasor Addition

The process of combining phasors to determine the total voltage or current in a circuit.