1. What is Total Reactance?

Total reactance (X_total) is the difference between inductive reactance (X_L) and capacitive reactance (X_C) in an AC circuit. It represents the combined opposition to current flow caused by inductors and capacitors.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the total reactance equation:

Where:

• \( X_L \) — Inductive reactance (Ω)
• \( X_C \) — Capacitive reactance (Ω)

Explanation: In AC circuits, inductors and capacitors create reactances that oppose current flow, with inductors opposing changes in current and capacitors opposing changes in voltage.

3. Importance of Reactance Calculation

Details: Calculating total reactance is essential for analyzing AC circuits, determining impedance, and designing filters and resonant circuits.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both reactance values in ohms (Ω). The result will show the net reactance, which can be positive (net inductive), negative (net capacitive), or zero (resonance).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does a positive total reactance mean?
A: A positive value indicates the circuit is predominantly inductive (X_L > X_C).

Q2: What does a negative total reactance mean?
A: A negative value indicates the circuit is predominantly capacitive (X_C > X_L).

Q3: What happens when total reactance is zero?
A: When X_total = 0, the circuit is at resonance, with X_L = X_C.

Q4: How is reactance different from resistance?
A: Reactance depends on frequency and stores/releases energy, while resistance dissipates energy as heat and is frequency-independent.

Q5: How do I calculate X_L and X_C?
A: X_L = 2πfL and X_C = 1/(2πfC), where f is frequency, L is inductance, and C is capacitance.