LC Circuits - Review for AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism

The video tutorial explains the behavior of an LC circuit, which consists of a capacitor, an inductor, and a switch. Initially, the switch is open, and the capacitor stores energy. When the switch is closed, the current initially remains zero due to the inductor's opposition to change. The video describes how energy oscillates between the capacitor and inductor, leading to simple harmonic motion. The LC circuit is compared to a mass-spring system, highlighting the energy transformation between electric and magnetic fields. The tutorial concludes by discussing the characteristics of an ideal LC circuit, emphasizing the absence of resistance and its implications for energy conservation.

What happens to the current in an LC circuit immediately after the switch is closed?

• It decreases to zero.

• It starts to increase.

• It remains zero.

• It reaches a steady state.

In an LC circuit, what causes the magnetic field in the inductor to increase?

• Increase in charge on the capacitor

• Decrease in current through the inductor

• Decrease in the electric field of the capacitor

• Increase in resistance of the circuit

What is the state of the capacitor when the inductor's magnetic field is at its maximum?

• Completely discharged

• Partially charged

• Fully charged

• Reversed charge

How does the LC circuit compare to a mass-spring system?

• Both exhibit simple harmonic motion.

• Both involve energy dissipation.

• Both involve complex harmonic motion.

• Both require external forces to operate.

Why is the LC circuit considered an example of undamped harmonic motion?

• Because it has multiple inductors and capacitors.

• Because there is no resistance in the circuit.

• Because it requires an external power source.

• Because it has a steady state current.