Question
What is the phase relationship between current and voltage for reactive power?
Answer Options
- A) They are out of phase
- B) They are in phase
- C) They are 90 degrees out of phase
- D) They are 45 degrees out of phase
Correct Answer: C
Explanation
In an AC circuit, the total power can be divided into real power (dissipated as heat or useful work) and reactive power (energy stored and returned by capacitors and inductors). The phase relationship between voltage and current dictates how much of each type of power is present.
Reactive power is the power associated solely with the reactive components (L and C). For a purely reactive component, the voltage and current waveforms are offset by a quarter cycle. Therefore, the phase relationship between current and voltage for reactive power is that they are 90 degrees out of phase. Real power occurs when voltage and current are in phase (0 degrees offset).
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