Series RLC Circuit Analyzer

Use this analyzer to explore how resistance, inductance, capacitance, and frequency combine in an ideal series AC circuit. Change one quantity at a time and compare the readout with your prediction.

Updates instantly

XL = 2πfLXC = 1 / (2πfC)Z = R + j(XL − XC)

Model controls

Circuit values

FrequencyHzRMS voltageVResistanceΩInductance0 = nonemHCapacitance0 = noneµF

Impedance triangle

The triangle is redrawn to scale with every change.

Calculated readout

Complex impedance

—

Impedance magnitude

—

Phase angle

—

RMS current

—

Real power

—

Reactive power

—

Apparent power

—

Power factor

—

!Theory model only — do not use it to size, approve, or perform electrical work.

Model assumptions

The analyzer treats resistance, inductance, and capacitance as ideal series elements in sinusoidal steady state at one frequency. Voltage and current are RMS values. Entering zero inductance or capacitance omits that element from the model.

Positive reactance produces a positive phase angle and lagging current in this sign convention. Negative reactance produces a negative phase angle and leading current. Reactive power uses the same sign.

The model does not account for component tolerances, parasitic effects, losses, harmonics, transients, protection, or electrical-code requirements.

Try these theory checks

• Set inductance and capacitance to zero and explain why the phase angle becomes zero.
• Raise the frequency with both reactive elements present and watch which reactance becomes dominant.
• Adjust values until the inductive and capacitive reactances nearly cancel, then inspect current and power factor.

These are original study prompts written for this site.