In electronics, which component stores energy in a magnetic field?

In electronics, which component stores energy in a magnetic field?

• A. Capacitor
• B. Resistor
• C. Inductor
• D. Diode

Answer: (C)

Storing energy in a magnetic field is a property of the inductor. When current flows through a coil, a magnetic field builds up around it and energy is stored in that field, proportional to 1/2 times the inductance times the current squared (E = 1/2 L I^2). This magnetic energy can be released back into the circuit when the current changes. By contrast, a capacitor stores energy in an electric field between its plates (E = 1/2 C V^2); a resistor converts energy into heat and does not store it; a diode is a nonlinear device that controls current flow and also does not store energy.

Storing energy in a magnetic field is a property of the inductor. When current flows through a coil, a magnetic field builds up around it and energy is stored in that field, proportional to 1/2 times the inductance times the current squared (E = 1/2 L I^2). This magnetic energy can be released back into the circuit when the current changes. By contrast, a capacitor stores energy in an electric field between its plates (E = 1/2 C V^2); a resistor converts energy into heat and does not store it; a diode is a nonlinear device that controls current flow and also does not store energy.