I consider electrical theory to be one of my weak points, and am attempting to correct this. I've heard this term (ELI the ICE man), but have never had it fully explained. I understand it is a short way to remember voltage leading current in circuits or lagging in some circuits.
Anyone know the correct interpretation?
guess I need to pick up a copy of the Ugly book too!!
Yes since know one can really answer the question it is the voltage leads the current in both capacitive and inductive circuits. Very easy suprised no one could help with this easy answer.
I never used a mnemonic to remember this relationship. Instead, I thought about what happens.
For example, in an inductor, the flow of current creates counter emf, which acts as a drag on current flow. So, in inductors OR circuits with a predominance of inductive reactance, current LAGS (or, "happens after") voltage.
With a capacitor, the current flows readily into an empty capacitor. As it fills the cap, the voltage increases across the two terminals due to the increasing stored charge. So, in a capacitor or a circuit that is predominantly capacitive, current LEADS (or, "happens before") voltage.
[Avatar photo from a Florida training accident. Everyone walked away.] 2 Tim 3:16-17
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Originally Posted by timebuilder
