What characteristic of an alternating current circuit opposes changes in current?

Inductance is the characteristic of an alternating current (AC) circuit that opposes changes in current. In an AC circuit, when the current fluctuates, inductors create a magnetic field around them. This magnetic field induces an electromotive force (EMF) that acts against the change in current, effectively resisting rapid changes in the flow of electricity.

This principle is crucial in many electrical and electronic applications, as inductors can smooth out variations in current and help prevent sudden spikes or drops that could damage components. The opposition to the change in current is quantified by a property called inductive reactance, which varies with the frequency of the alternating current and the inductance of the component.

In contrast, while resistance does oppose current flow in a circuit, it does not provide a reactive opposition to changes in current like inductance does. Capacitance, on the other hand, can store energy in an electric field and release it, which is more about managing voltage. Conductance refers to how easily electricity flows through a component, but it is not a reactive property involved in opposing changes in current.