Question T5C03
From subelement T5 - T5C
What describes the ability to store energy in a magnetic field?
Why is this correct?
Inductance is the property that describes the ability to store energy in a magnetic field. Inductors, typically constructed as coils of wire, create magnetic fields when current flows through them. Capacitance stores energy in electric fields, resistance dissipates energy as heat, and admittance measures how easily current flows. Only inductance involves magnetic field energy storage.
Memory tip
Remember the storage partnership: capacitors store energy in electric fields, inductors store energy in magnetic fields. Think 'magnetic inductors' - the coil shape is key to creating the magnetic field that stores the energy when current flows through the wire.
Learn more
In practical amateur radio circuits, inductors work with capacitors to create resonant circuits for frequency selection and filtering. The inductor's magnetic field energy storage enables it to oppose changes in current flow, making it essential for impedance matching networks, antenna tuners, and RF chokes that block radio frequency energy while allowing DC or audio frequencies to pass through.
Think about it
Why do you think inductors are constructed as coils of wire rather than straight pieces of wire when their purpose is to store energy in a magnetic field?