1. What is Series RLC Circuit Impedance?

The impedance (Z) of a series RLC circuit is the total opposition to alternating current, combining resistance (R) and reactance (X) from the inductor (L) and capacitor (C). It's a complex quantity with both magnitude and phase.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the series RLC impedance equation:

Where:

• \( R \) — Resistance in ohms (Ω)
• \( L \) — Inductance in henries (H)
• \( C \) — Capacitance in farads (F)
• \( \omega \) — Angular frequency in radians per second (rad/s)
• \( j \) — Imaginary unit (√-1)

Explanation: The real part is the resistance, while the imaginary part is the net reactance (inductive reactance minus capacitive reactance).

3. Importance of Impedance Calculation

Details: Impedance determines current flow in AC circuits, affects power transfer, and is crucial for resonance analysis and filter design.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter positive values for all parameters. Capacitance must be greater than zero. Angular frequency (ω) = 2πf where f is frequency in Hz.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What happens at resonance?
A: When ωL = 1/(ωC), the reactance cancels out and impedance is purely resistive (minimum impedance).

Q2: How does impedance change with frequency?
A: At low frequencies, capacitive reactance dominates. At high frequencies, inductive reactance dominates.

Q3: What are typical units?
A: Resistance (Ω), inductance (H), capacitance (F), frequency (rad/s), impedance (Ω).

Q4: What's the difference between impedance and resistance?
A: Resistance opposes DC current, while impedance opposes AC current and includes phase effects.

Q5: How is power factor related?
A: Power factor = cos(θ) where θ is the impedance phase angle (R/Z).