Series RC phase angle intuition — comparing resistance and capacitive reactance: When the resistance R is greater than the capacitive reactance Xc in a series RC circuit, the circuit phase angle (voltage leading current) is what range?

Introduction / Context:
The phase angle in a series RC circuit indicates how far the source voltage leads the circuit current. Understanding the relationship between R and Xc helps predict phase behavior without detailed computation, which is valuable for quick checks in design and troubleshooting.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Series RC network with resistance R and capacitive reactance Xc.
• Condition: R > Xc.
• Phase angle φ for series RC is defined by tan(φ) = Xc / R (voltage leads current).

Concept / Approach:
Because tan(φ) = Xc / R, if R is larger than Xc, the ratio Xc/R is less than 1. The arctangent of a value less than 1 yields an angle less than 45 degrees but greater than 0 degrees, reflecting modest leading behavior. Extreme cases: if Xc ≫ R, φ approaches 90°; if Xc = R, φ = 45°; if Xc ≪ R, φ approaches 0°.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Choose a numeric example: let R = 1000 Ω and Xc = 500 Ω. Then tan(φ) = 0.5 ⇒ φ ≈ 26.6°, which lies squarely in the stated range.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
0° and exactly 45° correspond to limiting or equality conditions not satisfied here. “Between 45° and 90°” would require Xc > R, which contradicts the premise. 90° is unattainable with finite R unless R approaches zero.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing series RC with series RL sign conventions, or misremembering whether voltage leads or lags in capacitive circuits.

Final Answer:
between 0° and 45°