Current Division in Two Inductors Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ I_{L1} = I_s \times \frac{L_2}{L_1 + L_2} \]

Inductor 1 Current (I_L1):

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1. What is Current Division in Two Inductors?

Current division in two inductors refers to the distribution of current between two inductors connected in parallel in an electrical circuit. The current divides inversely proportional to the inductance values, with more current flowing through the inductor with lower inductance.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the current division formula:

\[ I_{L1} = I_s \times \frac{L_2}{L_1 + L_2} \]

Where:

\( I_{L1} \) — Current through inductor 1 (A)
\( I_s \) — Source current (A)
\( L_1 \) — Inductance of first inductor (H)
\( L_2 \) — Inductance of second inductor (H)

Explanation: The formula shows that the current through each inductor is inversely proportional to its inductance value when two inductors are connected in parallel.

3. Importance of Current Division Calculation

Details: Understanding current division in parallel inductors is crucial for circuit analysis, design of inductive circuits, and predicting current distribution in power electronics applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter source current in amperes, and both inductance values in henries. All values must be positive and non-zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why does current divide inversely with inductance in parallel?
A: In parallel circuits, inductors with lower inductance offer less opposition to current flow (lower inductive reactance), allowing more current to pass through them.

Q2: What happens if the inductors have equal inductance?
A: If L1 = L2, the current divides equally between the two inductors (I_L1 = I_L2 = I_s/2).

Q3: Does this formula work for AC circuits?
A: This formula applies to DC circuits. For AC circuits, the current division depends on both inductance and frequency through inductive reactance (X_L = 2πfL).

Q4: What are typical applications of parallel inductors?
A: Parallel inductors are used in filter circuits, power supplies, RF circuits, and where specific current distribution or combined inductance is required.

Q5: How does mutual inductance affect current division?
A: If mutual inductance exists between the parallel inductors, the current division becomes more complex and depends on the coupling coefficient between the inductors.