Derivation of the inductor energy storage formula

What is the formula for energy stored in an inductor?

The formula for energy stored in an inductor is W = (1/2) L I^2. In this formula, W represents the energy stored in the inductor (in joules), L is the inductance of the inductor (in henries), and I is the current flowing through the inductor (in amperes).

How is energy stored in an inductor?

Energy in the inductor is stored in the form of a magnetic field. When current is applied, the energy of the magnetic field expands and increases the energy stored in the inductor. The energy remains constant as long as the current is maintained. If the current is removed, the energy is discharged as the magnetic field contracts.

What factors affect the energy stored in an inductor?

Coil Inductance: The inductance of the coil, typically expressed in henries, influences the amount of initial energy stored. The higher the inductance, the more energy an inductor can store. Current: Another vital factor is the amount of current flowing through the inductor – the energy stored is directly proportional to the square of this current.

What is the theoretical basis for energy storage in inductors?

The theoretical basis for energy storage in inductors is founded on the principles of electromagnetism, particularly Faraday's law of electromagnetic induction, which states that a changing magnetic field induces an electromotive force (EMF) in a nearby conductor.

When does the energy stored by an inductor stop increasing?

The energy stored by the inductor increases only while the current is building up to its steady-state value. When the current in a practical inductor reaches its steady-state value of Im = E/R, the magnetic field ceases to expand.

How does a pure inductor work?

This energy is actually stored in the magnetic field generated by the current flowing through the inductor. In a pure inductor, the energy is stored without loss, and is returned to the rest of the circuit when the current through the inductor is ramped down, and its associated magnetic field collapses. Consider a simple solenoid.