Alternating Current
Define Alternating Current?
Alternating Current (AC) is an electric current that periodically reverses direction, changing polarity over time.
Who Invented the Alternating Current?
Alternating current (AC) electricity was developed by various scientists, with Nikola Tesla and George Westinghouse pioneering its practical use in the late 19th century.
What is an Alternating Current Generator?
An Alternating Current (AC) generator, often called an alternator, is a device that converts mechanical energy into AC electrical energy. It operates on the principle of electromagnetic induction.
What is Difference between AC and DC?
The main difference between Direct Current (DC) and Alternating Current (AC) lies in the direction of electron flow:
- DC: Electric charge flows in only one direction, from the positive (+) terminal to the negative (-) terminal.
- AC: Electric charge periodically reverses direction, constantly oscillating back and forth.
Which Source Produces Alternating Current?
Alternating Current is typically produced by AC generators or alternators. These generators convert mechanical energy into electrical energy using electromagnetic induction.
What Converts Alternating Current to Direct Current?
A device called a rectifier is used to convert Alternating Current (AC) to Direct Current (DC).
What is the Frequency of Alternating Current in India?
The frequency of Alternating Current (AC) in India is 50 Hz (Hertz). The power grid in India operates at this frequency, and most electrical appliances and devices in the country are designed to work with this standard frequency.
Alternating Current
Alternating Current and Direct Current are the two types of electricity based on the direction of the voltage and current. In households, we use mostly Alternating Current as the grids are designed to provide alternating current only. But in the case of power storage, DC is used. Alternating currents vary with time so does their voltage.
All the appliances in a common household are wired to work with these types of currents and voltage sources. To understand the workings of these devices in real life, it becomes essential to understand the concepts behind alternating current (AC). Let’s look at these concepts in detail.
Table of Content
- What is Alternating Current (AC)?
- Alternating Current Definition
- Alternating Current Voltage Symbol
- AC Generators
- Alternating Current Waveform
- Characteristics of Alternating Current (AC)
- Alternating Current Vs Direct Current
- AC Circuit Analysis
- Ohm’s Law for AC Circuits
- Applications of Alternating Current
- Safety Considerations for Alternating Current
- Sample Problems on Alternating Current