What happens to an inductor when power is removed, leading to a transient?

When power is removed from an inductor, it generates a kickback pulse due to the nature of inductance and its property to oppose changes in current. Inductors store energy in the form of a magnetic field when current flows through them. When the current is suddenly interrupted, the inductor attempts to maintain the current flow because of the energy stored in its magnetic field. This results in a rapid change in current, creating a voltage spike or "kickback" that can be significantly higher than the voltage present in the circuit prior to the power being removed.

This kickback effect can be hazardous in electrical circuits, as it may produce high voltages that can damage components or create unsafe conditions. Proper safety measures, like using flyback diodes in inductive circuits, are essential to manage this phenomenon and protect the system.

The other options do not accurately reflect the behavior of an inductor in this scenario. An inductor does not experience no change when power is removed; rather, it actively generates a voltage to oppose the change in current. It also does not become a permanent magnet, as its magnetization is temporary and directly linked to the current flow. While it may discharge energy as the magnetic field collapses, it does not simply discharge completely