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Complex Impedance Calculator
Calculate complex impedance, magnitude, phase angle, and reactance values for ideal series or parallel RLC circuits at a selected frequency.
Input Parameters
Results
Equations Used
Inductive Reactance: XL = 2πfL
Capacitive Reactance: XC = 1 / (2πfC)
Series Impedance: Z = R + j(XL - XC)
Parallel Impedance: Z = 1 / (1/R + 1/jXL + 1/(-jXC))
Magnitude and Phase: |Z| = √(Re² + Im²), θ = atan2(Im, Re)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is complex impedance?
Complex impedance represents both resistance and reactance, showing magnitude and phase of an AC circuit.
Q2: What does a positive imaginary part mean?
Positive imaginary impedance is inductive; negative imaginary impedance is capacitive.
Q3: Why does impedance depend on frequency?
Inductor and capacitor reactance change with frequency, so total impedance changes as frequency changes.
Q4: Can this calculate speaker or RF impedance?
It can model ideal RLC networks, but real speakers, antennas, and RF networks often require measured or frequency-dependent models.
Q5: Why is parallel impedance harder than series impedance?
Parallel networks combine admittances rather than direct impedances, so complex reciprocal calculations are required.
Q6: Can I leave L or C as zero?
Yes. A zero value is treated as an absent inductor or capacitor branch where possible.
