9. Alternating Current
Alternating Current (AC) is a type of electric current that periodically reverses direction and is more efficient for long-distance transmission compared to direct current (DC). AC is characterized by frequency, amplitude, and phase, which affect its behavior in circuits with various components such as resistors, inductors, and capacitors. The power in AC circuits relies on the RMS values of voltage and current as well as the power factor, reflecting the phase differences. AC is widely used for generating and transmitting electrical power across long distances, making it indispensable for industrial, commercial, and household applications.
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What we have learnt
- AC is a type of electric current that periodically reverses direction.
- The important characteristics of AC include frequency, amplitude, and phase.
- The behavior of AC in different circuit components varies significantly based on their impedance.
Key Concepts
- -- Alternating Current (AC)
- An electric current that periodically changes direction, commonly used in power supply due to its efficient transmission.
- -- Frequency
- The number of cycles completed by an alternating current per second, measured in Hertz (Hz).
- -- RMS Value
- The effective value of an AC signal that indicates the equivalent DC value which would produce the same heating effect.
- -- Power Factor
- The ratio of real power used in a circuit to the apparent power, defined as cos φ, where φ is the phase difference between voltage and current.
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