SUMMARY
Power factor (PF) is defined as the ratio of average power to apparent power, expressed mathematically as PF = cos(theta v - theta i), where theta v represents load voltage and theta i represents load current. The power factor angle corresponds to the angle between the voltage and current vectors, not directly to load impedance. The relationship between power factor and load impedance is established through the angle between the impedance and resistance vectors, which is equivalent to the power factor angle. Understanding these relationships is crucial for analyzing AC circuits effectively.
PREREQUISITES
- Basic understanding of AC circuit theory
- Familiarity with vector representation of voltage and current
- Knowledge of impedance and resistance concepts
- Mathematical proficiency in trigonometry
NEXT STEPS
- Study the relationship between voltage, current, and impedance in AC circuits
- Learn about phasor diagrams and their application in power factor analysis
- Explore the effects of power factor correction techniques
- Research advanced topics in load impedance and its impact on power systems
USEFUL FOR
Electrical engineers, students studying AC circuit theory, and professionals involved in power system analysis and optimization.