ARRL Technician Practice Exam

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Prepare for the ARRL Technician Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

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What type of electrical component stores energy in a magnetic field?

Capacitor
Resistor
Inductor
POTENTIOMETER

The correct answer is: Inductor

An inductor is an electrical component designed to store energy in a magnetic field. When an electric current passes through the inductor, it creates a magnetic field around it. This magnetic field can store energy, and when the current changes or is interrupted, the inductor releases that energy back into the circuit. This property of storing energy in the form of a magnetic field is fundamental to how inductors operate. Capacitors, in contrast, store energy in an electric field rather than a magnetic field. Resistors dissipate energy as heat and do not store energy, while potentiometers are variable resistors that allow for adjustment of resistance but do not have the capability to store energy. Understanding these distinctions enhances comprehension of how different components operate within electronic circuits.