1. What is the Current Through Inductor Formula?

The current through an inductor formula describes how current builds up in an inductor when voltage is applied in an RL circuit. It shows the exponential approach to the maximum current (V/R) over time.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the inductor current formula:

Where:

• \( I \) — Current through the inductor (amperes)
• \( V \) — Applied voltage (volts)
• \( R \) — Resistance in the circuit (ohms)
• \( L \) — Inductance (henries)
• \( t \) — Time since voltage was applied (seconds)
• \( e \) — Euler's number (~2.71828)

Explanation: The formula shows how current approaches its maximum value (V/R) exponentially, with the time constant τ = L/R determining how quickly this occurs.

3. Importance of Inductor Current Calculation

Details: Understanding inductor current is crucial for designing and analyzing RL circuits, power electronics, and transient response in electrical systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter voltage in volts, resistance in ohms, inductance in henries, and time in seconds. All values must be positive (time can be zero).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What happens when t approaches infinity?
A: The current approaches V/R (the maximum current in the circuit), as the exponential term approaches zero.

Q2: What is the time constant (τ) in an RL circuit?
A: The time constant τ = L/R determines how quickly the current reaches ~63.2% of its final value.

Q3: Can this formula be used for AC circuits?
A: No, this formula is for DC voltage applied to an RL circuit. AC circuits require phasor analysis.

Q4: What if R = 0?
A: The formula breaks down when R=0. In a purely inductive circuit, current increases linearly with time (I = (V/L)t).

Q5: How does inductance affect the current?
A: Higher inductance slows the rate of current increase (larger L means longer time constant τ = L/R).