AC theoryQuestion 932 of 1506

A perfect inductor is connected to an AC source. What net power does it dissipate over a full cycle?

  1. Zero, as it returns the energy
  2. The full apparent power, all of it as heat
  3. Half of the apparent power, as heat in the coil
  4. Power that rises steadily with time
Show answer

Correct answer: Zero, as it returns the energy

It absorbs energy while the field grows and releases the same energy as the field collapses.

Source: Lessons in Electric Circuits II: AC (Kuphaldt), 3.2: AC Inductor Circuits

Practice ac theory

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026