In a series RL circuit, what happens to the current over time as it approaches maximum?

In a series RL circuit, the behavior of the current over time as it approaches its maximum value is characterized by an exponential growth pattern. When a voltage is suddenly applied to the circuit, the inductor initially opposes the change in current due to its inductance, leading to a gradual increase in current rather than an immediate jump to a maximum value. This increase follows an exponential curve described by the time constant of the RL circuit, which is determined by the inductance and resistance in the circuit.

As time passes, the current continues to rise, approaching a steady-state value determined by the applied voltage and the total resistance in the circuit. The exponential nature indicates that the rate of change of current decreases over time, but the current itself continually grows until it reaches its maximum steady-state value. This understanding of current behavior in RL circuits is crucial for analyzing their performance in various applications.