What is the formula for calculating capacitive reactance?

Prepare for the 4th Year Lineman Apprentice Test. Study with comprehensive materials, including flashcards and multiple-choice questions with detailed hints and explanations. Boost your confidence and ace your exam!

The correct formula for calculating capacitive reactance is given by the relationship ( X_c = \frac{1}{2\pi f C} ). In this equation, ( X_c ) represents the capacitive reactance, ( f ) is the frequency of the alternating current in hertz, and ( C ) is the capacitance in farads.

Capacitive reactance describes how a capacitor opposes the flow of alternating current (AC) due to its capacitance. As frequency increases or capacitance decreases, capacitive reactance decreases, allowing more current to pass. This relationship is crucial for understanding how capacitors behave in AC circuits.

The formula arises from the concept that capacitors charge and discharge at a frequency-dependent rate. As the frequency increases, the effective opposition to current flow decreases, which is mathematically captured by this formula. Hence, understanding this connection between frequency, capacitance, and reactance is vital for applying this knowledge in practical electrical engineering and power systems.

The other options do not correctly represent the relationship defined by capacitive reactance and therefore do not convey the correct mathematical principles governing capacitor behavior in AC circuits.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy