How does frequency affect the reactance of an inductor?

The correct understanding of how frequency affects the reactance of an inductor is that reactance increases with frequency. This relationship is grounded in the fundamental formula for inductive reactance, which is given by the equation ( X_L = 2\pi f L ), where ( X_L ) represents the inductive reactance, ( f ) is the frequency, and ( L ) is the inductance in henries.

As frequency increases, the term ( 2\pi f ) results in a larger value, subsequently increasing the reactance ( X_L ). This indicates that inductors oppose changes in current more strongly as the frequency of the current passing through them increases. Therefore, for applications involving alternating current (AC), particularly at higher frequencies, inductors will exhibit greater reactance, making them more effective at limiting the current.

In summary, the correct answer emphasizes the direct relationship between frequency and inductive reactance, illustrating how higher frequencies lead to greater opposition to the flow of current in inductive circuits.