Which term refers to the measure of total opposition to current flow in a circuit?

Impedance is the term that refers to the total opposition to current flow in an alternating current (AC) circuit. It is a complex quantity that includes both resistance and reactance. Resistance is the opposition to current flow in a purely resistive circuit, whereas reactance accounts for the effects of capacitance and inductance, which can vary with frequency.

By incorporating both resistance and reactance into its definition, impedance provides a more comprehensive measure of how alternating current behaves in a circuit. This is particularly important in AC systems, where the influence of reactive components can significantly affect overall circuit performance. Understanding impedance is crucial for linemen, as it helps them analyze circuit behavior and make appropriate adjustments to ensure safe and efficient operation of electrical systems.