Inductors: Inductor is an electronics component in an electric circuit which possesses inductance. Inductor is constructed when a (conductor) material is wound on the magnetic material. When current flows through the coil, a magnetic field is created around the wire. This way we can say that the inductor stores the energy in the form of a magnetic field along the coil.  If the current flowing through an inductor changes, a changing magnetic field appears across wires. This changing magnetic field develops (induces) a voltage across the two ends of the wires. Inductor opposes the change in the electric current passing through it. This property of opposition is known as inductance.

Faraday’s Law states that any time a conductor moves through a magnetic field a voltage is generated. Because of this principle, it is possible to attach a magnet (or coil) to a rotating device and produce large amounts of electrical power (the Hoover Dam for example).

Lenz’ Law states that the induced currents in a conductor passing through a magnetic field will produce a magnetic field that will oppose the motion between the magnet and the conductor. To produce a large amount of electrical power, a large mechanical force is required (conservation of power).

The Inductor prevents current from making any sudden changes by producing large opposing voltages. Magnetic coupling can be used to transform voltages and currents, but power must remain the same. Coils and transformers can be used to select frequencies.

Symbols of Inductor