What is the primary function of inductors in power supplies?

The primary function of inductors in power supplies is to store energy in a magnetic field. When an electric current passes through an inductor, it creates a magnetic field around it. This magnetic field can store energy, which can then be released back into the circuit when needed, making inductors particularly useful in filtering applications and in smoothing out the output of power supplies.

In power supply circuits, inductors play a key role in regulating the flow of current, limiting ripple, and maintaining a steady output voltage. They help to manage changes in current, absorbing excess energy and releasing it to maintain a stable supply. This characteristic is essential in applications like buck and boost converters, where energy conversion is critical.

Other options, while related to different components or situations in power supplies, do not capture the fundamental role of inductors specifically. For example, resisting the flow of current is a function of resistors, converting AC to DC is primarily carried out by diodes in rectifier circuits, and increasing the input voltage typically involves transformers rather than inductors. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the unique property of inductors to store and manage energy in a magnetic field.