In an AC circuit containing resistance \( R \) and reactance \( X \), the impedance \( Z \) is given by:
\[
Z = \sqrt{R^2 + X^2}
\]
We are given:
\[
Z = \sqrt{3} R
\]
So,
\[
\sqrt{R^2 + X^2} = \sqrt{3} R
\Rightarrow R^2 + X^2 = 3R^2
\Rightarrow X^2 = 2R^2
\Rightarrow X = \sqrt{2} R
\]
Now, the phase angle \( \phi \) is given by:
\[
\phi = \tan^{-1} \left( \frac{X}{R} \right) = \tan^{-1} (\sqrt{2})
\]
\[
\tan \phi = \sqrt{2} \Rightarrow \phi = 60^\circ
\]
Therefore, the phase difference is \( \boxed{60^\circ} \).