Impedance

Impedance is a measure of how much a circuit or device resists or limits the flow of electrical current when a voltage is applied. Think of it like friction in a water pipe: higher impedance means more resistance to current, while lower impedance allows more current to pass through easily. It combines resistive, capacitive, and inductive effects, meaning it can be affected by both the type of components and the frequency of the electrical signal. Impedance is important in designing and matching electrical systems, such as audio equipment or communication devices, to ensure optimal performance and signal quality.