What symbol represents reactance in electrical circuit notation?

In electrical circuit notation, reactance is represented by the symbol "X." Reactance refers specifically to the opposition that inductors and capacitors provide to the flow of alternating current (AC). It arises from the phase difference between the voltage and current in AC circuits due to the storage of energy in magnetic and electric fields.

Inductors have a positive reactance, often denoted as (X_L), while capacitors have a negative reactance, denoted as (X_C). Both types of reactance contribute to the overall impedance of the circuit, but their individual contributions are represented by the variable "X." Impedance itself is then typically represented by the symbol "Z," which encompasses both resistance and reactance, thus highlighting the distinct role that "X" plays specifically in defining reactance.

This differentiation is crucial for understanding AC circuit behavior, particularly when analyzing how components like inductors and capacitors influence the current and voltage relationships in a circuit.