RLC circuit, need some help with the intuition behind inductors.

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the behavior of inductors in RLC circuits, specifically regarding the voltage reading of a voltmeter (V2) immediately after a switch is closed. Participants clarify that the voltmeter reads 0 volts due to the inductor's property of opposing changes in current, which prevents any voltage from being registered across it at that moment. The confusion arises from the misconception that an inductor would produce a negative voltage; however, the induced electromotive force (emf) acts to oppose the initial current, resulting in a zero reading on the voltmeter.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of RLC circuit components (Resistors, Inductors, Capacitors)
  • Knowledge of inductive reactance and its effects on current flow
  • Familiarity with Kirchhoff's voltage law in circuit analysis
  • Basic principles of electromotive force (emf) and induced current
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the behavior of inductors in transient circuits using simulations
  • Learn about the time constant in RLC circuits and its impact on voltage and current
  • Explore the concept of back emf in inductors and its applications in circuit design
  • Investigate the role of voltmeters in measuring voltage across reactive components
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electrical engineering, physics enthusiasts, and educators seeking to deepen their understanding of RLC circuits and inductor behavior in transient analysis.

theBEAST
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Homework Statement


I attached a picture of a sample problem that I was confused about. What I don't understand is why the V2 voltmeter would read 0 volts (according to the answer key). This is because I thought that an inductor produces an induced emf and current. So wouldn't the voltmeter read a negative value instead of zero?

Edit: immediately after the switch is closed.
 

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Are they asking about when the switch is off?
 
Rayquesto said:
Are they asking about when the switch is off?

Oops, immediately after the switch is closed.
 
I am very weak at circuits and I wish my physics II teacher could gives us better insight to this stuff, however, here is a thought: Initial charge goes from high potential, but when it hits the inductor, the induced current is supposed to oppose it right? So, it never actually gets through that part of the circuit and so the voltage does read anything it goes through it right? I mean, can you back me up on this one if you feel this is completely wrong?
 
theBEAST said:

Homework Statement


I attached a picture of a sample problem that I was confused about. What I don't understand is why the V2 voltmeter would read 0 volts (according to the answer key). This is because I thought that an inductor produces an induced emf and current. So wouldn't the voltmeter read a negative value instead of zero?

Edit: immediately after the switch is closed.
The voltmeter will not read negative.

What are your answers for the other meters after the switch is closed? Explain your reasoning behind each answer.
 

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