What type of energy conversion occurs in an inductor when current changes?

An inductor operates based on the principle of electromagnetic inductance, which allows it to store energy in a magnetic field when electrical current flows through it. When there is a change in the current flowing through the coil of the inductor—either increasing or decreasing—the inductor responds by generating a magnetic field.

This generated magnetic field represents the conversion of electrical energy (the energy associated with the current flowing through the inductor) into magnetic energy (the energy stored in the magnetic field). This ties directly to the characteristics of inductors, which are designed specifically to harness and utilize this interaction between electricity and magnetism.

When current changes, the inductor works to maintain the stability of the current flow by opposing the change. This is a crucial part of its operation and is reflected in the way it stores and releases energy, underscoring the relationship between electrical energy and magnetic energy. Therefore, the correct answer highlights this fundamental aspect of inductor behavior in electrical circuits.