CHARACTERISTIC IMPEDANCE OF A TRANSMISSION LINE

the maximum (and most efficient) transfer of electrical energy takes place
when the source impedance is matched to the load impedance.

Definition and Symbols

CHARACTERISTIC IMPEDANCE - Z0 is the ratio of E to I at every point along the line
-If a load equal to the characteristic impedance is placed at the output end of any length of line,
the same impedance will appear at the input terminals of the line.
-The characteristic impedance determines the amount of current that can flow when a given
voltage is applied to an infinitely long line

-Lumped values may be used for transmission line calculations