Fundamentals of AC Circuits
The module explores the fundamentals of alternating current (AC) circuits, covering key characteristics and mathematical representations of sinusoidal waveforms. It details the role of phasors in simplifying circuit analysis, explains effective values and power calculations, and examines resonance phenomena in RLC circuits. Finally, the advantages of three-phase systems and their configurations, such as Star and Delta connections, are discussed in the context of electrical power distribution.
Sections
Navigate through the learning materials and practice exercises.
What we have learnt
- AC voltage and current are defined by their sinusoidal characteristics.
- Phasor representation simplifies the analysis of AC circuits.
- Power in AC circuits comprises real power, reactive power, and apparent power, linked by the power factor.
Key Concepts
- -- Sinusoidal Waveform
- A waveform characterized by its smooth periodic oscillation, represented mathematically as v(t)=Vm sin(ωt+ϕ).
- -- Phasor
- A phasor is a complex number or rotating vector representing a sinusoidal quantity, simplifying AC circuit analysis.
- -- Impedance (Z)
- The total opposition to current flow in AC circuits, represented as a complex number accounting for resistance and reactance.
- -- Power Factor (PF)
- The ratio of real power consumed to apparent power in an AC circuit, indicating efficiency.
- -- Resonance
- A condition in RLC circuits where the effects of inductance and capacitance cancel each other, maximizing current and power at specific frequencies.
- -- ThreePhase System
- An electrical system using three alternating currents, with significant advantages in power efficiency, delivery, and load matching.
Additional Learning Materials
Supplementary resources to enhance your learning experience.