In mathematical terms, impedance (Z) is expressed as:
Z = R + jX
The dimensions of impedance are derived from its relationship with voltage (V) and current (I). Impedance is mathematically defined as:
Z = V / I
Voltage, or electric potential difference, is defined as the energy per unit charge. Its formula is:
V = Work / Charge
Work has the dimensions of M · L2 · T-2, and charge has the dimensions of I · T. Thus, the dimensions of voltage are:
[V] = M · L2 · T-3 · I-1
Electric current (I) is a fundamental quantity in the SI system. Its dimension is simply:
[I] = I
From the formula Z = V / I, we substitute the dimensions of V and I:
[Z] = M · L2 · T-3 · I-2
Thus, the dimensional formula for impedance is:
[Z] = M · L2 · T-3 · I-2
The SI unit of impedance is the ohm (Ω), named after Georg Simon Ohm. One ohm is equivalent to:
1 Ω = 1 volt / ampere
In base SI units:
1 Ω = kg · m2 / s3 · A2
Understanding the dimensions of impedance helps in multiple ways:
Impedance is applicable to our own home. The fuses panel regulates the electricity in the area. When the power surges, the fuses trip, reducing the number of electrical accidents. Fuses are similar to high capacity resistors that take the brunt of the damage. Furthermore, impedance in capacitors handles this situation. The electricity delivered by the alternating current is in the form of a fluctuating pulse. As a result, it is necessary to regulate the electricity flowing smoothly in the electric circuit—capacitor. The flow of electricity in a circuit board is managed by impedance. Electrical appliances that use alternating current will burn if capacitors are not used to regulate the electrical discharge.
The resistance in the image is caused by electron collisions with atoms inside the resistors. The creation of an electric field causes impedance in a capacitor. The creation of a magnetic field causes impedance in an inductor.