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⚛️ Physics  ·  Alternating Current  ·  NEET & JEE

An ideal LC circuit has a capacitor of 50 µF charged to 20 V and an inductor of 0.2 H. What is the maximum current in the circuit?

Answer: 0.316 A.

  • A 0.316 A
  • B 0.224 A
  • C 0.158 A
  • D 0.500 A

Correct answer: A. 0.316 A

Explanation: Initially all energy is in the capacitor: U = (1/2)CV<sup>2</sup>. At maximum current, U = (1/2)LI<sub>max</sub><sup>2</sup>. Thus I<sub>max</sub> = V&radic;(C/L) = 20&radic;(50&times;10<sup>-6</sup>/0.2) = 0.316 A.

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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