Definition

1. Noun:
   • A property of an electric circuit: Self-inductance is the inherent property of a circuit, especially a coil, that opposes any change in the electric current flowing through it.
   • A specific physical quantity: It is the ratio of the electromotive force (EMF) generated in a circuit by self-induction to the rate of change of the current that is causing it. Its unit of measurement is the henry (H).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The self-inductance of the solenoid determines how much it resists changes in current.
  • Calculating the self-inductance is crucial for designing efficient transformers and inductors.
  • A higher self-inductance means a greater induced voltage for a given rate of current change.

Advanced Usage

• "Mutual inductance vs. self-inductance": Self-inductance relates to the EMF induced in a circuit by its own changing current, while mutual inductance relates to the EMF induced in one circuit by a changing current in a nearby circuit.
  • In a transformer, both the self-inductance of each coil and the mutual inductance between them are important parameters.

Variants and Related Words

• Inductance (n): The general property of an electrical conductor by which a change in current induces an electromotive force. Self-inductance is a specific type of inductance.
• Inductor (n): An electrical component designed to have a specific self-inductance.
• Self-induction (n): The process or phenomenon of generating an electromotive force in a circuit by a change in the circuit's own current.

Synonyms

• Coefficient of self-induction: A more technical term for self-inductance.

Related Concepts (Not Phrasal Verbs or Idioms)

• Back EMF: The electromotive force generated by self-inductance, which opposes the change in current.
  • The motor's self-inductance creates a back EMF when the current is switched.
• Energy storage: A coil's self-inductance allows it to store energy in its magnetic field.
  • The energy stored is proportional to the self-inductance and the square of the current.

Noun

1. the ratio of the electromotive force produced in a circuit by self-induction to the rate of change of current producing it, expressed in henries