What happens to the current in an inductive circuit when it is switched off?

In an inductive circuit, when the circuit is switched off, the current does not drop instantly to zero. This is due to the nature of inductors, which store energy in their magnetic field while current flows through them. When the power supply is interrupted, the magnetic field begins to collapse, and the inductor generates a back EMF (electromotive force) that opposes the change in current.

As a result, the current decreases gradually rather than dropping sharply. The inductor will release the stored energy, and this can lead to a temporary continuation of current flow until the energy is completely dissipated. This gradual decrease allows for a gentler transition in the circuit and helps to reduce the risk of voltage spikes that could harm other components.

This behavior contrasts with options that suggest an instantaneous change or reversal of current, which does not accurately describe what occurs in an inductive circuit when the power supply is interrupted.