Re: inductor circuit concept

[Bob Sciamanda <trebor@VELOCITY.NET>]

> In exactly the same way, the potential difference across an
> inductor is *always* -Ldi/dt when one "goes with the flow" and
> +Ldi/dt when one "goes against the flow."

Well said, John.  At some point I like to put the mathematical sign problem
aside and speak to the physical nitty gritty:  If the current in an inductor
is falling in value, this means that it is subject to an E field directed
against the current flow.  This means a rise in potential in the direction
of the current flow.  Choose a positive direction and write your
mathematical model accordingly.


Bob Sciamanda (W3NLV)
Physics, Edinboro Univ of PA (em)
trebor@velocity.net
www.velocity.net/~trebor