Which of the following contributes to the overall opposition to current in an AC circuit?

The correct choice emphasizes the comprehensive nature of opposition to current in an AC circuit, which includes not just one component but a combination of different types of opposition. In an alternating current (AC) circuit, the overall opposition to current flow, known as impedance, consists of several factors.

Resistance represents the opposition to current flow due to the physical properties of a conductor, which remains consistent regardless of the frequency of the current. Capacitive reactance arises from capacitors, which resist changes in voltage when alternating current flows, while inductive reactance is associated with inductors that resist changes in current flow.

Incorporating all three components—resistance, capacitive reactance, and inductive reactance—gives a complete picture of how AC circuits behave. The interplay of these elements affects the phase relationship between voltage and current, alters the shape of current waveforms, and ultimately influences circuit performance. This inclusion of resistance and both types of reactance is essential for accurate calculations and understanding of AC circuit dynamics.