Phase Differences in of voltage in RC and LR circuits

AI Thread Summary
In RC circuits, the voltage across the resistor leads the voltage across the capacitor by 90 degrees due to the relationship between current and voltage, where voltage is proportional to the integral of current. Conversely, in LC circuits, the voltage across the inductor lags the current by 90 degrees because voltage is proportional to the derivative of the current. This phase difference arises from the fundamental properties of capacitors and inductors in response to alternating current. Understanding these relationships helps clarify the behavior of AC circuits without solely relying on mathematical equations. The discussion emphasizes the importance of recognizing how voltage and current interact in different circuit components.
Nadun
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Hey guys can someone please give me a good explanation on why in an RC circuit the resistor voltage is leading the capacitor voltage by 90°. While in an LC circuit the resistor voltage is lagging the inductor voltage by 90°.
Thanks
 
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You are talking about an AC circuit where the voltage is given by the equation V= V0sinωt. (ω= Angular frequency). Represent the current in similar terms and derive respective equations for a purely resistive, purely inductive and purely capacitive circuits. Then compare the phase difference.

Hint: CosΘ and SinΘ has a phase difference of 90 degrees.
 
hmm do you think you could explain it to me in physical terms, cos mathematically seems really confusing
 
Do you want me to explain you the concept behind alternating circuits?
 
I understand the basics of AC, and the concept of reactance, and what a capacitor does and what an inductor does to AC current i just don't get why one leads the other
 
Hhhhmmm...I am not sure I can leave math out of the question and explain in pure english...

The way I see it, in a capacitor, voltage is directly proportional to charge and charge is the accumulation (integral) of current; so, voltage is proportional to the integral of current.

In an inductor, voltage is produce only when the current changes, i.e., voltage is proportional to the derivative of the current.

Without bringing explicit equations into the mix...does this help?
 

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