Impedance - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Impedance is the measure of opposition a circuit presents to alternating current, combining resistance and reactance. It is crucial in designing electrical and electronic systems for efficient power transfer.
Definition:
The opposition to the flow of electric current in a circuit, combining resistance and reactance.
Synonyms:
resistance, opposition, hindrance, obstruction
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
conductance, facilitation
Common Collocations:
electrical impedance, high impedance, low impedance, impedance matching
Derivatives:
impedances (plural), impedential (adjective)
Usage Tips:
Use "impedance" in electrical contexts to describe opposition to current flow; avoid in general language for simpler terms like "resistance."
Common Phrases:
impedance mismatch, characteristic impedance, input impedance
Etymology:
From Latin "impedire" (to hinder) + "-ance," first used in electrical engineering in the late 19th century.
Examples:
- 1. The speaker's high impedance caused audio distortion.
- 2. Impedance matching ensures efficient power transfer in circuits.
- 3. The engineer measured the circuit's impedance with precision.
- 4. Low impedance headphones deliver clearer sound quality.