At 60 Hz, what is the capacitive reactance of a 100μF capacitor?

X_C = 1/(2π × 60 × 100×10⁻⁶).

At resonance, why is the voltage across L and C each larger than the source voltage?

V_L = IX_L; at resonance X_L can be >> R, so V_L >> V_source.

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AC Circuit Virtual Lab

Build and analyze AC circuits with real measurements

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How it works

AC circuits require analysis with phasors and complex impedance. The total impedance Z of a series RLC circuit combines resistance R with inductive reactance X_L and capacitive reactance X_C. At resonance (X_L = X_C), impedance is purely resistive and current is maximized. An oscilloscope reveals phase relationships between voltage and current waveforms.

Step-by-step

Use the component toolbar to build your circuit.
Connect the oscilloscope probes to measure waveforms.
Adjust frequency to find resonance — the oscilloscope will show V and I in phase.
The phasor diagram updates in real time.

Key formulas

$Z = \sqrt{R^2 + (X_L - X_C)^2}$ Impedance
$\phi = \arctan\left(\frac{X_L - X_C}{R}\right)$ Phase angle
$I_{rms} = \frac{V_{rms}}{Z}$ RMS current

Frequently asked questions

At 60 Hz, what is the capacitive reactance of a 100μF capacitor?: X_C = 1/(2π × 60 × 100×10⁻⁶).
Find the resonant frequency for L=100mH, C=100μF.: F₀ = 1/(2π√(LC)).
At resonance, why is the voltage across L and C each larger than the source voltage?: V_L = IX_L; at resonance X_L can be >> R, so V_L >> V_source.