Impedance claim sanity check — “The impedance is 9684 Ω”: Given a series RLC with R = 3.0 kΩ, X_L = 7.5 kΩ, and X_C = 5.5 kΩ at the operating frequency, evaluate the claim that the circuit impedance magnitude is 9684 Ω.

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: Incorrect — |Z| ≈ 3606 Ω, not 9684 Ω

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Numerical checks prevent order-of-magnitude mistakes in AC design. Series RLC impedance magnitude combines resistance and net reactance vectorially, not arithmetically. This item asks you to confirm or refute a specific impedance claim using given R, X_L, and X_C values.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Series RLC with R = 3.0 kΩ.
  • Inductive reactance X_L = 7.5 kΩ.
  • Capacitive reactance X_C = 5.5 kΩ.
  • Linear, sinusoidal steady state.


Concept / Approach:
For series RLC, Z = R + j(X_L − X_C). The magnitude is |Z| = √(R^2 + (X_L − X_C)^2). Reactances must be netted before combining with R. Plug in values carefully and keep units consistent (ohms).


Step-by-Step Solution:

Compute net reactance: X = X_L − X_C = 7.5 kΩ − 5.5 kΩ = 2.0 kΩ.Form magnitude: |Z| = √(R^2 + X^2) = √((3.0 kΩ)^2 + (2.0 kΩ)^2).Square terms: 9.0 + 4.0 = 13.0 (in (kΩ)^2).Take square root: √13.0 ≈ 3.606 kΩ → |Z| ≈ 3606 Ω.


Verification / Alternative check:
Phasor diagram shows a modest inductive reactance remaining; the impedance should be a few kilohms, not almost 10 kΩ. A quick calculator or spreadsheet confirms 3.606 kΩ.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

“Correct — 9684 Ω” is far off the computed value.“Only at resonance” is irrelevant; the given X_L and X_C are not equal.“Cannot be determined” is false; R, X_L, X_C suffice.“R much larger than reactances” contradicts the provided numbers.


Common Pitfalls:
Adding R and reactances directly; forgetting to difference X_L and X_C before forming the magnitude; dropping kilo- prefixes during arithmetic.


Final Answer:
Incorrect — |Z| ≈ 3606 Ω, not 9684 Ω

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