Consider the circuit shown in Figure. A voltmeter (VM) is connected across the inductance. The switch has been closed for a long time. When the switch is opened, an arc appears across the switch contacts. Explain why. Assuming an ideal switch and inductor, what voltage appears across the inductor when the switch is opened? What could happen to the voltmeter when the switch opens?
![770_switch.png](https://secure.tutorsglobe.com/CMSImages/770_switch.png)