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RLC Series Circuit Calculator

Work out rlc series circuit instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.

About RLC Series Circuit Calculator

In a series RLC circuit the reactances subtract: X = XL - XC, and impedance is sqrt(R squared + X squared). At resonance the two reactances cancel and impedance falls to R alone, giving maximum current. Q = (1/R) sqrt(L/C) measures how sharp that resonance is.

Formula

Series RLC

Z = sqrt(R^2 + (wL - 1/wC)^2); f0 = 1/(2 pi sqrt(LC)); Q = (1/R) sqrt(L/C)

Worked example

With the default values below, RLC Series Circuit Calculator returns Impedance magnitude of 138.85. Change any input above and every figure here is recalculated in your browser.

Inputs used

Resistance
100 Ω
Inductance
10 mH
Capacitance
1 µF
Frequency
1,000 Hz

Results

Impedance magnitude
138.85 Ω
Phase angle
-43.93 °
Resonant frequency
1,591.55 Hz
Q factor
1.000

Step by step

  1. 1Values used
  2. 2Series RLC
  3. 3Impedance magnitude= 138.85 Ω
  4. 4Phase angle= -43.93 °
  5. 5Resonant frequency= 1,591.55 Hz
  6. 6Q factor= 1.000

Assumptions and limits

  • The result is derived only from the 4 inputs listed above. Anything not among them is not part of the calculation.
  • In particular, this calculator does not take inflation, tax or fees or charges into account.
  • Figures are rounded for display to 3 decimal places, so totals built from several rounded parts can differ slightly from the unrounded arithmetic.
  • Electrical results are planning estimates only. Verify against the applicable wiring rules (IEC 60364, BS 7671, NEC or local code) and have all installation work designed and checked by a qualified electrician.

How these calculators are built and tested is described on the Methodology page. If a figure looks wrong, please report it.

Electrical results are planning estimates only. Verify against the applicable wiring rules (IEC 60364, BS 7671, NEC or local code) and have all installation work designed and checked by a qualified electrician.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does a series circuit show minimum impedance at resonance?

Because the inductive and capacitive reactances are equal and opposite, so they cancel entirely and only the resistance remains.

What does a negative phase angle mean?

The circuit is capacitive below resonance, so current leads voltage. Above resonance it is inductive and current lags.

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