In an RL series circuit, the time constant (τ) is a measure of how quickly the current through the inductor (L) will change when a voltage is applied. It is defined as the time it takes for the current to reach approximately 63.2% of its final value after a step change in voltage.
For an RL series circuit, the time constant is given by:
\[ \tau = \frac{L}{R} \]
where:
- \( L \) is the inductance of the inductor (in henries, H)
- \( R \) is the resistance of the resistor (in ohms, Ω)
### Multiple Choice Question Example:
**What is the time constant of an RL series circuit?**
A) \(\frac{R}{L}\)
B) \(L \cdot R\)
C) \(\frac{L}{R}\)
D) \(L + R\)
**Correct Answer:**
C) \(\frac{L}{R}\)