SUMMARY
The resistance of a non-ohmic resistor, such as a lamp, is defined as the ratio of voltage (V) to current (I), not the slope of the voltage-current (v-i) graph. In a v-i graph where voltage is on the x-axis, the slope represents the inverse of resistance (1/R), while if current is on the x-axis, the slope equals resistance (R). For non-ohmic resistors, the relationship between V and I is nonlinear, meaning the ratio V/I does not equate to the slope of the curve. Impedance (Z) is defined as the derivative of voltage with respect to current (dV/dI) and varies based on the components in the circuit.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of Ohm's Law (V = IR)
- Familiarity with voltage-current (v-i) graphs
- Knowledge of impedance and its distinction from resistance
- Basic concepts of circuit analysis involving linear and nonlinear components
NEXT STEPS
- Research the differences between impedance and resistance in AC and DC circuits
- Learn about the characteristics of non-ohmic resistors and their v-i behavior
- Study the application of calculus in circuit analysis, particularly derivatives in relation to voltage and current
- Explore the effects of reactive components (inductors and capacitors) on impedance in circuits
USEFUL FOR
Electrical engineers, electronics students, and anyone involved in circuit design and analysis, particularly those working with non-linear components and impedance calculations.