Question

Why do we use inductor in buck converter?

Answer 1

We use an **inductor in a buck converter** to **smooth out the current** and help convert a **higher voltage into a lower voltage efficiently**.

Here’s a simple explanation:

### 1. **Stores Energy and Maintains Current**

* The inductor stores energy when the switch (usually a transistor) is ON.
* When the switch turns OFF, the inductor releases this stored energy.
* This helps to **keep the output current flowing continuously**, even when the switch is OFF.

### 2. **Reduces Ripple in Output Current**

* Without an inductor, the output current would be very choppy (full of ripples).
* The inductor resists sudden changes in current, so it **smooths out the current**, giving a **more stable DC output**.

### 3. **Works with Capacitor**

* The inductor and capacitor together form an LC filter.
* The **inductor smooths the current**, and the **capacitor smooths the voltage**.
* This combination gives a **clean, steady output voltage and current**.

### Visual Example:

Imagine a water tank with a tap:

* The switch is like a tap that turns water ON and OFF quickly.
* The inductor is like a sponge—it **soaks up water when the tap is ON**, and **releases it slowly when the tap is OFF**.
* This keeps the water flow (current) more steady.

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Would you like a diagram or animation-style explanation as well?