AC Theory Help: Resistor, Capacitor & Inductor in Series

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In summary, the conversation discusses AC theory and the understanding of reactance, specifically in series circuits with a resistor, capacitor, and inductor. The conclusion is that the current in a series circuit is the same in all components, including the capacitor where electrons flow on and off the plates, creating an unbroken flow of electrons.
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MegaDeth
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Hey, so I've just started learning about AC theory. I understand the reactance part of it, both capacitive and inductive. Although there are a few things I need to clear up. If there's a resistor, capacitor and inductor in series, will the calculated current from each component be the same? I assume it is since it's a series circuit, but just to make sure.
 
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  • #2
yes, the current in a series circuit is the same in all components. How could it possibly be otherwise?
 
  • #3
There is no current literally through the capacitor, because there is an insulator between its plates, but whenever electrons flow on to one of its plates, an equal number flow off the other plate, so it's as if there were an unbroken flow of electrons through the capacitor - in one wire and out through the other.
 

1. What is AC theory?

AC theory is the study of electrical circuits that involve alternating current (AC) instead of direct current (DC). It includes the behavior and properties of components such as resistors, capacitors, and inductors when connected in an AC circuit.

2. What is a resistor, capacitor, and inductor?

A resistor is an electrical component that limits or resists the flow of current in an electrical circuit. A capacitor is a device that stores electrical energy by accumulating charge on its plates. An inductor is a component that stores energy in the form of a magnetic field when current flows through it.

3. How are resistors, capacitors, and inductors connected in series?

In a series connection, the components are connected end-to-end, with the same current flowing through each component. In an AC circuit, the total impedance of the series connection is equal to the sum of the individual impedances of each component.

4. What is the equation for calculating the total impedance in a series connection?

The equation for calculating total impedance in a series connection is Z = R + (1/jωC) + jωL, where Z is the total impedance, R is the resistance, C is the capacitance, L is the inductance, ω is the angular frequency, and j is the imaginary unit.

5. How does the total impedance change when resistors, capacitors, and inductors are connected in series?

In a series connection, the total impedance increases as more components are added. This is because the individual impedances add together, resulting in a higher total impedance. Additionally, the phase angle between voltage and current also changes with each component added in series.

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