Which of the following scenarios would typically involve reactive power?

Reactive power is associated with the energy stored in inductive and capacitive components of an electrical system. In this context, an inductive load, such as a motor, typically involves reactive power because it utilizes electromagnetic fields to operate.

When an inductive load like a motor is energized, it draws current that creates a magnetic field, which is essential for its operation. However, this process does not convert all of the power directly into useful work. Instead, some of the power alternates between being absorbed and released by the inductive device, leading to the presence of reactive power in the system alongside real power, which does perform useful work.

In contrast, the other scenarios typically feature different power dynamics. A purely resistive load would consume only real power, and a conducting wire would primarily facilitate the transfer of energy without generating inductance or capacitance. A battery charging system may involve complex interactions but does not primarily engage in reactive power phenomena as inductive loads do.

Thus, the scenario involving an inductive load like a motor directly links to the generation and necessity of reactive power, illustrating its role in alternating current systems.