Question
How are impedances described in polar coordinates?
Answer Options
- A) By X and R values
- B) By real and imaginary parts
- C) By magnitude and phase angle
- D) By Y and G values
Correct Answer: C
Explanation
A complex impedance can be represented in two mathematical forms: rectangular (e.g., R + jX) or polar (e.g., |Z| \angle\phi). While rectangular coordinates are convenient for addition and subtraction, polar coordinates simplify multiplication, division, and component transformations.
In polar coordinates, impedances are described by magnitude and phase angle. The magnitude |Z| represents the total opposition (in ohms), and the phase angle \phi represents the phase shift between the voltage and current waveforms. This angle is positive for inductive circuits and negative for capacitive circuits.
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