Formula For Phase Difference Between Current And Voltage

Phase Angle Formula:

\[ \phi = \tan^{-1}\left(\frac{X}{R}\right) \]

Phase Angle (Radians):

Phase Angle (Degrees):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What Is The Formula For Phase Difference Between Current And Voltage?

The phase angle formula calculates the phase difference between current and voltage in AC circuits. It represents the angle by which the current leads or lags the voltage in reactive circuits containing inductors or capacitors.

2. How Does The Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the phase angle formula:

\[ \phi = \tan^{-1}\left(\frac{X}{R}\right) \]

Where:

\( \phi \) — Phase angle between current and voltage
\( X \) — Reactance (Ω)
\( R \) — Resistance (Ω)

Explanation: The formula calculates the arctangent of the ratio of reactance to resistance, giving the phase angle in radians. Positive phase angle indicates current lags voltage (inductive circuit), negative indicates current leads voltage (capacitive circuit).

3. Importance Of Phase Angle Calculation

Details: Phase angle calculation is crucial for power factor analysis, circuit design, impedance matching, and understanding power consumption in AC circuits. It helps determine whether a circuit is predominantly resistive, inductive, or capacitive.

4. Using The Calculator

Tips: Enter reactance and resistance values in ohms (Ω). Both values must be positive and non-zero. The calculator provides results in both radians and degrees for convenience.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does a phase angle of 0 degrees mean?
A: A phase angle of 0° indicates a purely resistive circuit where current and voltage are in phase.

Q2: What is the range of possible phase angles?
A: Phase angles range from -90° to +90°. Positive angles indicate inductive circuits, negative angles indicate capacitive circuits.

Q3: How does reactance affect phase angle?
A: Higher reactance relative to resistance increases the magnitude of the phase angle, making the circuit more reactive.

Q4: What is power factor related to phase angle?
A: Power factor = cos(φ), where φ is the phase angle. It represents the ratio of real power to apparent power.

Q5: When is this formula most applicable?
A: This formula is most accurate for linear circuits with sinusoidal AC signals and constant frequency operation.