Power factor and three-phaseQuestion 1163 of 1506

What is added in parallel to an inductive load to correct a lagging power factor?

  1. A larger resistor
  2. A capacitor
  3. An inductor in series
  4. A transformer with a tap
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Correct answer: A capacitor

Inductive reactance can only be cancelled by capacitive reactance.

Source: Lessons in Electric Circuits II: AC (Kuphaldt), 11.3: Calculating Power Factor

Practice power factor and three-phase

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026