Which type of loss does an inductive iron core primarily experience due to magnetic hysteresis?

The correct choice identifies core loss as the primary type of loss an inductive iron core experiences due to magnetic hysteresis. Core loss encompasses both hysteresis losses and eddy current losses that occur in a magnetic material when it is subjected to alternating magnetic fields.

Hysteresis loss specifically pertains to the energy that is lost as the magnetic domains within the iron core realign with the changing magnetic field. As the magnetic field alternates, these domains do not instantly follow the changes because of their inertia and internal friction, resulting in energy being dissipated in the form of heat. This loss is a key factor in determining the efficiency of transformers and inductors that use iron cores.

Recognizing core loss is crucial for engineers and designers when selecting materials for magnetic applications, as reducing hysteresis loss can lead to more efficient devices. In contrast, resistive loss is typically associated with the resistance in conductors, copper loss refers specifically to losses in conductive copper elements due to resistance, and inductive loss pertains to the loss in a coil due to its inductance and reactance in an AC circuit, which do not directly address the specific losses related to hysteresis in magnetic core materials.