Updated: Dec 9, 2025 | Source: 2023-2027 Question Pool | Topic: G5A
G5A08G5A

What is impedance?

Deep Dive: G5A08

The correct answer is C: The ratio of voltage to current. Impedance is the ratio of voltage to current (Z = V/I). Impedance represents the total opposition to AC current, including both resistance and reactance. For amateur radio operators, this is a fundamental circuit concept. Understanding this helps when working with AC circuits.

Why Other Answers Are Wrong

Option A: Incorrect. Impedance isn't the ratio of current to voltage - that's admittance (I/V). Impedance is voltage to current, not current to voltage. Option B: Incorrect. Impedance isn't the product of current and voltage - that's power (P = IV). Impedance is a ratio, not a product. Option D: Incorrect. Impedance isn't the product of current and reactance - that's not a standard relationship. Impedance is voltage to current ratio.

Exam Tip

Impedance = ratio of voltage to current. Think 'I'mpedance = 'I'mpedance = 'V'/'I'. Impedance (Z) = V/I, representing total opposition to AC current. Not current/voltage (admittance), not product (power), not current×reactance - just V/I.

Memory Aid

Impedance = ratio of voltage to current. Think 'I'mpedance = 'I'mpedance = 'V'/'I'. Impedance (Z) = V/I, representing total opposition to AC current. Fundamental AC circuit relationship.

Real-World Example

A circuit has 10 volts AC and 0.2 amps AC. The impedance is Z = V/I = 10/0.2 = 50 ohms. Impedance is the ratio of voltage to current - it tells you how much opposition the circuit presents to AC current flow.

Source & Coverage

Question Pool: 2023-2027 Question Pool

Subelement: G5A

Reference: 2023-2027 Question Pool · G5 - Electrical Principles

Key Concepts

Impedance Voltage to current ratio Z = V/I AC opposition

Verified Content

Question from the official FCC General Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the G5A topic.