What is typically true about the relationship between inductive and capacitive reactance in an AC circuit?

In an AC circuit, the relationship between inductive and capacitive reactance is an important aspect of understanding how these two components interact. The correct choice highlights the fact that both inductive and capacitive reactance influence the current direction in the circuit.

Inductive reactance is associated with inductors and causes the current to lag behind the voltage. On the other hand, capacitive reactance arises from capacitors, making the current lead the voltage. This phase difference influences the overall behavior of the circuit, as the interaction between these two types of reactance can determine the net current flow, its phase in relation to the total voltage, and the power factor of the circuit.

When inductive and capacitive reactance are effectively balanced, it leads to a resonant condition where the circuit can operate efficiently. Therefore, understanding how they affect current direction helps in analyzing and designing AC circuits optimally, contributing to better performance and control.

The other options do not accurately describe the nature of the relationship between inductive and capacitive reactance. The first choice suggests that they are always equal, which is not necessarily true as their values can vary based on frequency and component characteristics. The second choice implies they cannot coexist, which is incorrect since both can