inductance

inductance quantity that measures the electromagnetic induction of an electric circuit component; it is a property of the component itself rather than of the circuit as a whole. The self-inductance, L, of a circuit component determines the magnitude of the electromagnetic force (emf) induced in it as a result of a given rate of change of the current through the component. Similarly, the mutual inductance, M, of two components, one in each of two separate but closely located circuits, determines the emf that each may induce in the other for a given current change. Inductance is expressed in henrys [for Joseph Henry ]. An inductor is a device designed to produce an inductance, e.g., a coil; an ideal inductor, i.e., one having no resistance or capacitance (see impedance ), is often called an inductance.

inductance (symbol H) Property of an electric circuit or component that produces an electromotive force (emf) after a change in the current. The SI unit is the henry (symbol H). Self-inductance (symbol L) occurs when the current flows through the circuit or component, and mutual inductance (symbol M) when current flows through two circuits or components that are linked magnetically. See also electromagnetic induction