The Q-factor, or quality factor, of a resonant circuit is a dimensionless parameter that quantifies the sharpness of the resonance peak in relation to its bandwidth. It is defined as the ratio of the resonant frequency () to the bandwidth () of the circuit:
A higher Q-factor indicates a narrower bandwidth and thus a more selective circuit, meaning it can better differentiate between frequencies. This is desirable in applications such as radio receivers, where the ability to isolate a specific frequency is crucial. Conversely, a low Q-factor suggests a broader bandwidth, which may lead to less efficiency in filtering signals. Factors influencing the Q-factor include the resistance, inductance, and capacitance within the circuit, making it a critical aspect in the design and performance of resonant circuits.
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