1. What is RLC Phase Angle?

The phase angle in an RLC circuit represents the phase difference between the voltage and current. It indicates whether the circuit is predominantly inductive (positive angle) or capacitive (negative angle).

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the phase angle formula:

Where:

• \( X_L \) — Inductive reactance (Ω)
• \( X_C \) — Capacitive reactance (Ω)
• \( R \) — Resistance (Ω)

Explanation: The formula calculates the angle whose tangent is equal to the ratio of the net reactance to resistance in the circuit.

3. Importance of Phase Angle Calculation

Details: Phase angle calculation is crucial for analyzing AC circuits, determining power factor, and designing filters and resonant circuits.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all values in ohms (Ω). Resistance must be greater than zero. The result is given in degrees.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does a positive phase angle indicate?
A: A positive phase angle indicates that the voltage leads the current, characteristic of an inductive circuit.

Q2: What does a negative phase angle indicate?
A: A negative phase angle indicates that the voltage lags the current, characteristic of a capacitive circuit.

Q3: What is the range of possible phase angle values?
A: Phase angle can range from -90° to +90°, representing purely capacitive to purely inductive circuits.

Q4: How is phase angle related to power factor?
A: Power factor is equal to the cosine of the phase angle (cos θ). A phase angle of 0° indicates unity power factor.

Q5: When is the phase angle zero?
A: Phase angle is zero when the circuit is at resonance (X_L = X_C), resulting in a purely resistive circuit.