What is the symbol used for impedance?

The symbol used for impedance is Z. Impedance is a crucial concept in electrical engineering and represents the total opposition that a circuit presents to the flow of alternating current (AC). It incorporates both resistance (the opposition to direct current, represented by R) and reactance (the opposition due to inductance or capacitance, represented by L and X, respectively).

Impedance is typically expressed in ohms and can be calculated as a complex number that combines these elements: Z = R + jX, where "j" is the imaginary unit. This highlights how Z reflects both the resistive and reactive properties of a circuit, making it a fundamental parameter when analyzing AC circuits, as it affects current and voltage relationships.

While R is purely resistive, and L and X pertain to the reactive components, Z encompasses all forms of opposition to current. By understanding this, one can effectively analyze and design electrical systems that operate under AC conditions.