Inductive reactance of a series–parallel inductor network: Two 10 H inductors are connected in parallel, and this parallel combination is then in series with a third 10 H inductor. What is the approximate total reactance at 7 kHz?

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: 660 kΩ

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Series–parallel combinations of inductors reduce to an equivalent inductance that determines the overall reactance X_L = 2π f L_eq. Accurate reduction and unit conversion are core skills for AC network analysis at audio and RF frequencies.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • L1 = 10 H in parallel with L2 = 10 H.
  • That parallel pair is in series with L3 = 10 H.
  • Frequency f = 7 kHz; ideal inductors (no resistance considered).


Concept / Approach:
Two equal inductors in parallel produce L_par = L/2. Then add the series inductor to get L_eq. Finally compute X_L = 2π f L_eq and convert to kilohms for comparison to options.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Parallel of two 10 H: L_par = (10 * 10)/(10 + 10) = 5 H.Equivalent inductance: L_eq = L_par + 10 H = 5 + 10 = 15 H.Reactance: X_L = 2π f L_eq = 2π * 7000 * 15 ≈ 659,734 Ω ≈ 660 kΩ.


Verification / Alternative check:
Reasonableness: A very large inductance at several kilohertz should yield hundreds of kilohms of reactance; the computed value aligns with that intuition.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • 66 kΩ: A factor-of-10 error from dropping a zero in the frequency or inductance.
  • 219 kΩ or 1.3 MΩ: Do not match 2πfL with L_eq = 15 H at 7 kHz.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Mistaking parallel of equal inductors as 2L (it is L/2).
  • Dropping units when converting to kilohms.


Final Answer:
660 kΩ

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