Reactors in electric systems are used for which of the following purposes?

Choosing to highlight control of reactive power and stabilization of voltage as a primary function of reactors in electric systems is essential for understanding their role in maintaining system reliability and efficiency. Reactors primarily operate by introducing inductance into the electrical system, which can help balance out the effects of capacitive loads.

In electric networks, capacitive loads can lead to voltage instability and excessive reactive power, particularly during periods of high demand. Reactors serve to counteract these issues by absorbing reactive power, effectively reducing the overall reactive power in the system. This regulation helps stabilize voltage levels across transmission lines, ensuring that the voltage remains within safe operational limits.

In addition to reactive power control, reactors can limit short-circuit currents, but this is not their primary operational role compared to their reactive power management capabilities. Unlike energy storage devices, reactors do not store energy for later use but, instead, manage energy flow in real time. Furthermore, the conversion between AC and DC currents is a function handled by devices such as converters or inverters, not reactors.

Thus, the specific purpose of controlling reactive power and stabilizing voltage makes reactors crucial components for maintaining system performance in electric power systems.