Energy Stored in an Inductor
Energy Stored in an Inductor
An inductor stores energy in its magnetic field while current flows, released when the current is interrupted.
The stored energy is E = ½·L·I². where L is the inductance and I the current.
Inputs
L := 0.5 H=0.5 H
I := 4 A=4 A
Apply the inductor energy formula.
E := 0.5·L·I^2=4 Nm
Results
The energy scales with the square of current. Suddenly breaking the circuit forces this energy out as a voltage spike — why inductive loads need snubbers.
Assumptions & limitations
- Ideal inductor.
- Steady current.
- No core saturation.