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⚛️ Physics  ·  Alternating Current  ·  NEET & JEE

An AC source drives three loads: R = 10 Ω, X<sub>L</sub> = 10 Ω, X<sub>C</sub> = 10 Ω, all in series. The power factor is:

Answer: 1 (pure resistive at resonance).

  • A 1 (pure resistive at resonance)
  • B 0, as if the circuit carried no real power whatsoever
  • C 0.707, the value corresponding to a 45 degree phase angle
  • D 0.5, the value corresponding to a 60 degree phase angle

Correct answer: A. 1 (pure resistive at resonance)

Explanation: X<sub>L</sub> = X<sub>C</sub> = 10 Ω. Net reactance = X<sub>L</sub> - X<sub>C</sub> = 0. Z = √(R² + 0²) = R. Phase angle = 0. Power factor = cos(0) = 1.

V and I Phase Relationships in AC CircuitsPure Inductor: I lags V by 90°VIPure Capacitor: I leads V by 90°VIMemory aid "ELI the ICE man": in an inductor (L) E(V) leads I; in a capacitor (C) I leads E(V)For a pure resistor, V and I stay perfectly in phase (no lag or lead at all)

In a pure inductor the current lags the voltage by 90° (energy is briefly stored in the magnetic field before current responds); in a pure capacitor the current leads the voltage by 90° (current must flow to build up charge before voltage rises) - the mnemonic "ELI the ICE man" keeps these straight.

Concept context

AC circuits, impedance, LCR series circuit, resonance, transformers, and power factor.

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