Solve Inductance for 550nm EM Waves w/17pF Capacitor

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In summary, the conversation was about solving for the required inductance in an oscillator capable of generating visible electromagnetic waves. The participant rearranged an equation and isolated L, but noted that the answer seemed extremely small. They also questioned the meaning of the prefix 'p' in the given capacitor value and confirmed that it stands for pico, equivalent to 10^(-12). The final calculation for L was 5.0x10^(-21).
  • #1
z_sharp
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Hi all, I've managed to solve the following question but the answer I'm getting doesn't seem right...

What inductance must be connected to a 17 pF capacitor in an oscillator capable of generating 550 nm (i.e. visible) electromagnetic waves? Comment on your answer.

To solve it I just rearranged the following equation and isolated L

[tex]f=\frac{1}{2\pi\sqrt{LC}}[/tex]

I'm also not sure what the prefix 'p' in the 17pF stands for...

Thanks
 
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  • #2
p stands for pico, which is equivalent to 10^(-12).
 
  • #3
So this is what I have now, the answer I'm getting is extremely small, could someone please just check over my work to see if I have made any errors... Thanks

[tex]
\begin{gather*}
C=17pF=1.7\times10^{-11}F\\
\lambda=550nm=5.5\times10^{-7}m\\
c=3.0\times10^8m/s
\end{gather8}
[/tex]

[tex]
\begin{gather*}
f=\frac{1}{2\pi\sqrt{LC}\\
\frac{c}{\lambda}\sqrt{LC}=\frac{1}{2\pi}}\\
LC=(\frac{\lambda}{2c\pi})^2\\
L=(\frac{\lambda}{2c\pi})^{2}(\frac{1}{C})\\
L=5.0\times10^{-21}\\
\end{gather*}
[/tex]
 
  • #4
Your algebra looks right to me. I don't remember much about inductance to comment on the physics of it.
 

FAQ: Solve Inductance for 550nm EM Waves w/17pF Capacitor

How do you calculate inductance for 550nm EM waves?

To calculate inductance for 550nm EM waves, you need to use the formula L = (c * µo * n^2 * A) / 2πf, where L is inductance, c is the speed of light, µo is the permeability of free space, n is the refractive index, A is the area of the capacitor plates, and f is the frequency of the EM wave.

What is the role of a 17pF capacitor in this calculation?

The 17pF capacitor is used to store energy in the circuit and create an electric field, which in turn generates a magnetic field. This interaction between the electric and magnetic fields produces the inductance for the 550nm EM waves.

How does the refractive index affect the inductance calculation?

The refractive index is a measure of how much a material can slow down the propagation of light. It affects the inductance calculation by changing the velocity of the EM waves, which in turn affects the frequency and wavelength of the waves.

Can inductance be measured experimentally?

Yes, inductance can be measured experimentally by using a variety of techniques such as using an inductance meter, measuring the time constant of an RL circuit, or using a bridge circuit.

How can inductance for 550nm EM waves be applied in real-world situations?

Inductance for 550nm EM waves has various applications, including in the design of electronic circuits, in wireless communication systems, and in the production of high-frequency electromagnetic radiation such as X-rays and microwaves.

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