Purely Inductive Circuit -- Mathematical proof for current lag

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the mathematical proof that in a purely inductive circuit, the current lags behind the voltage by a phase angle of π/2. Participants explore the underlying mathematics and concepts related to inductance and AC circuits.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose using the imaginary impedance ##j\omega L## and the relationship ##V = Z \;I## to analyze the phase difference.
  • One participant suggests defining voltage as a mathematical function, specifically indicating that the sine function is implied in the discussion.
  • Another participant discusses the differential equation relating voltage and current in an inductor, indicating familiarity with the topic.
  • There are mentions of integrating the voltage function to find the current, with specific calculations provided, including the relationship between sine and cosine functions.
  • A participant expresses that the relationship becomes trivial once the definitions and functions are established.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

While some participants seem to reach a level of understanding regarding the mathematical relationships, there is no explicit consensus on the proof itself, and questions remain about the clarity of the initial inquiry.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of familiarity with complex numbers and the mathematical framework necessary for the discussion, indicating that assumptions about prior knowledge may affect the clarity of the conversation.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals interested in understanding the mathematical relationships in AC circuits, particularly those involving inductors and phase differences in current and voltage.

CosmicC
how we can mathematically prove that in a purely inductive circuit current lags behind voltage by a phase angle of π/2?
 
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With a purely imaginary impedance ##j\omega L## and ##V = Z \;I## you see that ##\arg V = \arg j\omega L + \arg I##
 
CosmicC said:
how we can mathematically prove that in a purely inductive circuit current lags behind voltage by a phase angle of π/2?
Welcome to the PF. :smile:

1) Is this a question for your homework or schoolwork?

2) << EDIT -- I removed this point since it might not be accurate >>.

3) Are you familiar with the differential equation defining the voltage across an inductor v(t) as a function of the inductance and the derivative of the current i(t) through the inductor?
 
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Point isn't so much we don't want to help you; more that we have no idea what kind of help is useful for you. Are you at all familiar with complex numbers when dealing with AC, or with the equations berkeman is referring to ?
In short: a bit more context, please !

Oh, and: read the guidelines
 
berkeman said:
Welcome to the PF. :smile:

1) Is this a question for your homework or schoolwork?

2) << EDIT -- I removed this point since it might not be accurate >>.

3) Are you familiar with the differential equation defining the voltage across an inductor v(t) as a function of the inductance and the derivative of the current i(t) through the inductor?
Yes Sir I am.
 
So we can mark this one as solved ? Or is there a remaining question ?
 
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CosmicC said:
how we can mathematically prove that in a purely inductive circuit current lags behind voltage by a phase angle of π/2?
First you have to define voltage as some math function.

Your question infers sine function but doesn't say that's what it is. Sine is a mathematical oddity in that its derivative and integral have its same shape .
so we use them almost interchangeably

Once you realize that it's trivial

CosmicC said:
Yes Sir I am.
So you're aware e = L X di/dt
∫e dt = L X ∫di ;
i = 1/L X ∫e dt
if e = sin wt , i = 1/L X ∫sin(wt) = -1/ωL X cos(wt) if i didnt miss a sign someplace

and cosine is just sine shifted ninety degrees ..
Draw it out ?
 
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jim hardy said:
First you have to define voltage as some math function.

Your question infers sine function but doesn't say that's what it is. Sine is a mathematical oddity in that its derivative and integral have its same shape .
so we use them almost interchangeably

Once you realize that it's trivial So you're aware e = L X di/dt
∫e dt = L X ∫di ;
i = 1/L X ∫e dt
if e = sin wt , i = 1/L X ∫sin(wt) = -1/ωL X cos(wt) if i didnt miss a sign someplace

and cosine is just sine shifted ninety degrees ..
Draw it out ?
Yes Now i get it. And even both the curves has difference of ninety degrees. Thanks a lot.
 
  • #10
BvU said:
So we can mark this one as solved ? Or is there a remaining question ?
Solved. Thanks a lot. :)
 

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