Why does the inductor store energy

How do inductors store energy?

Inductors store energy in their magnetic field when current flows through them. This energy storage depends on the inductor’s inductance and current. An inductor is a passive electronic component that plays a crucial role in various electronic circuits by storing energy in its magnetic field when an electric current flows through it.

How does a Magnetic Inductor work?

As the current flows through the inductor, the magnetic field builds up and stores energy. The energy stored in the inductor is proportional to the square of the current and the inductor’s inductance. When the current decreases or stops, the magnetic field collapses, and the stored energy is released back into the circuit.

Why should you use an inductor for energy storage?

Because the current flowing through the inductor cannot change instantaneously, using an inductor for energy storage provides a steady output current from the power supply. In addition, the inductor acts as a current-ripple filter. Let’s consider a quick example of how an inductor stores energy in an SMPS.

How is the energy stored in an inductor calculated?

The energy stored in the magnetic field of an inductor can be written as E = 0.5 * L * I^2, where L is the inductance and I is the current flowing through the inductor.

When does the energy stored by an inductor stop increasing?

The energy stored by the inductor increases only while the current is building up to its steady-state value. When the current in a practical inductor reaches its steady-state value of Im = E/R, the magnetic field ceases to expand.

Can people store energy in an inductor and use it later?

Yes, people can and do store energy in an inductor and use it later. People have built a few superconducting magnetic energy storage units that store a megajoule of energy for a day or so at pretty high efficiency, in an inductor formed from superconducting "wire".