Inductors and 'path of least resistance'

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the construction of inductors, specifically addressing why the wire in an inductor is not insulated from other turns and the implications of this design choice. Participants explore concepts related to electrical resistance and the physical properties of inductor windings.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions why the wire in an inductor is not insulated from other turns, suggesting that electricity would take the path of least resistance and could bypass the turns.
  • Another participant challenges this notion, asserting that if the wire were uninsulated, the inductor would not function as a solenoid but rather as a cylindrical shell.
  • A later reply points out that if the wire is bare, the turns must be spaced to prevent contact, implying that insulation is necessary for proper function.
  • Participants note that wire used for windings is typically coated in enamel, which may not be immediately apparent.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the necessity and implications of insulation in inductors, indicating that the discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing perspectives.

Contextual Notes

There are assumptions regarding the properties of wire insulation and its impact on inductor functionality that remain unexamined. The discussion does not reach a consensus on the necessity of insulation or the consequences of using bare wire.

Pythagorean
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Why is the wire in an inductor not insulated from the other turns in the wire? Or rather, why isn't it necessary?

We learn that the electricity will take the path of least resistance, so why would it bother going around each turn when it can just skim straight across the inductor and leave the opposite terminal?
 
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Pythagorean said:
Why is the wire in an inductor not insulated from the other turns in the wire? Or rather, why isn't it necessary?
Are you certain about that? Otherwise the the inductor would be simply a cylindrical shell rather than a solenoid as commonly portrayed.
 
Defennder said:
Are you certain about that? Otherwise the the inductor would be simply a cylindrical shell rather than a solenoid as commonly portrayed.

If they are insulated, the insulation is copper colored and feels metallic.

Here in one of the pictures:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inductor

I can see on one of the inductors that it is, in fact, a coating.
 

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