SOLVED: What is the difference between Linear and nonlinear loads ? (With an example)

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Linear loads are those that draw a constant amount of power from the source, regardless of the voltage or current applied. Examples of linear loads include incandescent light bulbs, resistive heaters, and electric motors with no speed control. On the other hand, nonlinear loads are those that draw a varying amount of power from the source, depending on the voltage or current applied. Examples of nonlinear loads include electronic devices such as computers, televisions, and LED lights, as well as devices with variable speed control such as fans and pumps.

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The main difference between linear and nonlinear loads is that linear loads have a linear relationship between the voltage and current, while nonlinear loads have a nonlinear relationship between the voltage and current. This means that the power factor of nonlinear loads is typically lower than that of linear loads, which can lead to issues with power quality and efficiency. For example, a 100-watt incandescent light bulb is a linear load because it draws a constant 100 watts of power from the source, regardless of the voltage or current applied. In contrast, a computer is a nonlinear load because it draws varying amounts of power depending on the voltage and current applied, and its power factor is typically lower than that of a linear load.