Phase angle in an RLC circuit?

Question

Does the phase angle represent the angle between the total Voltage and Voltage(resistor), Voltage(inductor), Voltage(capacitor) OR the total voltage and Voltage(resistance)? Explain.

I know considering the impedance (Z) would help me somehow with this question, but I can't seem to find a connection. Any help would be appreciated!

Answer 1

The phase angle is the angle between the current and the voltage, but not between two types of voltage. Basically, its meant to determine if the circuit is more capacitive or inductive.

Mathematically, it is given by:

ø = tan^-1 ((XL - XC) / R)

Answer 2

The phase is the voltage lagging or leading the current.  Pure resistor -- current and voltage are in phase.  Capacitor, voltage lags current.  Inductor, voltage leads current.RLC circuit --  lag/lead tells what predominates.