Question T6A06
From subelement T6 - T6A
What type of electrical component stores energy in a magnetic field?
Why is this correct?
An inductor stores energy in a magnetic field. Inductors are typically constructed as coils of wire, and when current flows through the coil, a magnetic field forms around it. This magnetic field is where the energy is stored. Capacitors store energy in electric fields between metal plates, not magnetic fields. Varistors are voltage-dependent resistors that don't store energy. Diodes control current direction and don't store energy in magnetic fields.
Memory tip
Remember the energy storage twins: capacitors use electric fields, inductors use magnetic fields. The physical construction gives the clue—coiled wire creates magnetic fields when current flows, while separated plates create electric fields when voltage is applied.
Learn more
In amateur radio circuits, inductors work with capacitors to create resonant circuits for frequency selection and filtering. The inductance property, measured in henries, determines how much energy can be stored in the magnetic field. This energy storage capability makes inductors essential in RF circuits for impedance matching, filtering unwanted frequencies, and creating tank circuits in oscillators and amplifiers.
Think about it
Why do you think inductors are constructed as coils of wire rather than flat surfaces like capacitors?