Inductor Reactance Calculator
Calculate the inductive reactance (XL) of an inductor at different frequencies.
Calculated Result
Interactive Circuit
Reactance vs Frequency Graph
Understanding Inductive Reactance
Inductive reactance (XL) is the opposition to current flow in an AC circuit caused by inductance. It is calculated using:
XL = 2πfL
Where:
- XL = Inductive reactance in ohms (Ω)
- π = Pi (approximately 3.14159)
- f = Frequency in hertz (Hz)
- L = Inductance in henries (H)
Frequency (f)
Measured in Hertz (Hz)
Inductance (L)
Measured in Henries (H)
Reactance (XL)
Measured in Ohms (Ω)
Understanding Inductors in AC Circuits
Key Concepts
Frequency Dependence
Inductive reactance increases linearly with frequency. This means: - Higher frequencies result in higher reactance - DC (0 Hz) results in zero reactance - Reactance doubles when frequency doubles
Phase Relationship
In an ideal inductor: - Current lags voltage by 90° - Energy is stored in magnetic field - No power is dissipated (only reactive power)
Common Applications
Filters
Used in crossover networks, low-pass, and high-pass filters.
Power Supplies
Smoothing current and reducing ripple in power supplies.
RF Circuits
Tuning and impedance matching in RF applications.
Design Considerations
Selection Factors
- • Operating frequency range
- • Current handling capability
- • DC resistance (DCR)
- • Self-resonant frequency (SRF)
Common Issues
- • Core saturation
- • Parasitic capacitance
- • Temperature effects
- • EMI considerations