What type of electrical component stores energy in a magnetic field?

The component that stores energy in a magnetic field is an inductor. This is due to the principle of electromagnetic induction. When an electric current flows through a coil of wire, magnetic fields are produced around the wire. If the current changes, the magnetic field also changes, which can induce voltage and store energy in the magnetic field.

Inductors are commonly used in various applications such as filters, oscillators, and transformers due to their ability to store energy and smooth out current in circuits. Unlike capacitors, which store energy in an electric field, inductors focus on magnetic fields, making their energy storage principle distinct and crucial for certain electronic functions.

Understanding inductors' role in energy storage and signal processing is vital for anyone involved in electronics, especially in radio frequency (RF) applications where understanding impedance and reactance is essential.