Moderate

Which of the following statement is correct for an A.C circuit:

Correct answer: C. The current leads the voltage by a phase angle of 90o

  • A. The current depends upon the components connected in circuit
  • B. The current lags the voltage by a phase angle of 90o
  • C. The current leads the voltage by a phase angle of 90o
  • D. The current and voltage are in same phase

Explanation

The correct option is C. The current leads the voltage by a phase angle of 90°.This statement describes the behavior of a purely capacitive circuit. In such a circuit, such as one containing only a capacitor, the current leads the voltage by a phase angle of 90°. This phase shift occurs because the capacitor stores and releases energy as the voltage across it changes.When an alternating voltage is applied to a capacitor, the capacitor charges and discharges in response to changes in the voltage. As the voltage across the capacitor increases, it stores energy in the form of an electric field, causing current to flow into the capacitor. When the voltage decreases, the capacitor releases this stored energy, causing current to flow out of the capacitor.Due to this charging and discharging behavior, the current through the capacitor leads the voltage across it by 90°. This phase relationship is a characteristic behavior of capacitive circuits in AC systems and is fundamental to understanding their operation.

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About Alternating Current

Alternating current varies periodically, so phase relationships become essential when current passes through a resistor, capacitor or inductor. The chapter distinguishes resistance from capacitive and inductive reactance, explains phase lead and lag, and connects changing electric and magnetic fields with the production and properties of electromagnetic waves.

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