Question

What are the factors that affect the inductance of a circuit?

Answer 1

Hint: We have to understand what the inductance of a circuit refers to. Then we can find out the factors upon which the inductance of a circuit depends. We will have an elaborative approach to find the factors that the inductance of a circuit depends upon.

Complete answer:
Let us have a brief knowledge about the inductance of a circuit or what it refers to. Basically, inductance of a circuit is defined as the tendency of an electrical conductor to oppose the flow of current within the circuit.

In more detailed view we can say that, inductance is the property of an electrical circuit by which it develops electromotive force within itself or from neighbouring circuit which opposes the flow of electric current. It can be made by winding a wire in the form of a coil within a material.

So, the factors upon which the inductance of a circuit depends are as follows:
(i) Number of turns in the coil: The greater the number of turns in the coil the greater inductance and vice versa. As there are more turns there will be more magnetic force or more emf which will oppose more current through it.
(ii) Area of coil: Greater the coil area greater is the inductance and vice versa. As the area increases magnetic flux increases and hence magnetic force increases which develops more emf which oppose current flow.
(iii) Core material: Greater the magnetic permeability greater is the inductance. Therefore, magnetic force increases which develops more emf which oppose current flow.
(iv) Coil length: As the length of the coil increases, the inductance is less whereas if the length of the coil decreases the inductance increases.

Note: The inductance of a circuit is mainly affected by the magnetic force that develops upon the loop of coil. In order to increase or decrease inductance we have to increase or decrease the magnetic force that acts on it.