How to Determine the voltage polarity of inductor in a circuit?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on determining the voltage polarity across an inductor in a circuit, particularly when it is connected in parallel with a capacitor and in series with a resistor. Participants explore the implications of circuit configuration on voltage polarity and the relationships between components.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant claims that the voltage polarity across the inductor is the same as that across the capacitor when they are in parallel.
  • Another participant states that the sum of the voltages around the circuit must equal zero, suggesting that the direction of current flow determines the polarity of the components.
  • A different participant questions the current direction indicated in the circuit diagram and suggests writing a voltage equation based on the charge on the capacitor.
  • One participant advises redrawing the circuit diagram for clarity, indicating that energy flows from the capacitor through the inductor to the resistor, where it is dissipated as heat, and provides a voltage equation involving the components.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the voltage polarity across the inductor and how to analyze the circuit, indicating that multiple competing perspectives remain unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Participants note potential confusion arising from the circuit diagram and the need for clarity in the representation of component positions. There may be assumptions regarding the direction of current flow and the reference voltage that are not explicitly stated.

smatik
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The Voltage polarity across the inductor is same as that across the capacitor since both are in parallel and the voltage across them must be same.
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But when Inductor, capacitor and resistor are connected as shown in the second figure what would be the voltage polarity across the inductor and why? (right end of inductor 'r'=+ve or -ve?)
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The sum of the voltages around the circuit must be zero.
The battery causes a current to flow, the direction of flow sets the polarity of the components.
 
I've indicated The direction of current in second figure(Is it correct?). The current is due to charged capacitor(you can see the charge on the capacitor is Q). So what voltage equation would you write?
 
Your circuit diagram is confusing you. Redraw the diagram with the capacitor on the left (with positive terminal up), the resistor on the right and the inductor at the top. The bottom line is a reference voltage.

Energy from the capacitor on the left flows through the inductor to the resistor on the right where it is dissipated as heat.

Measuring around the circuit, VC + VL + VR = 0
 

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