The concept of reactance in AC electrical circuits is often non-intuitive and difficult for students
to grasp. In order to address this lack of conceptual understanding, classroom exercises compare the
predicted resistance of a power tool, based on electrical specifications, to measured resistance.
Once students discover that measured resistance is smaller than expected, they are asked to explain
these observations using previously studied principles of magnetic induction. Exercises also
introduce the notion of inductive reactance and impedance in AC circuits and, ultimately, determine
self-inductance of the motor windings within the power tool.