Alternating Current (AC)

Definition

Alternating current (AC) is an electric current that periodically reverses direction, in contrast to direct current (DC) which flows in a constant direction. AC is the standard form of electricity distribution and power transmission used in most residential, commercial, and industrial applications.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. AC is the predominant form of electricity used in power grids and household electrical systems due to its ability to be easily transformed to different voltages.
2. The direction of the current in an AC circuit periodically reverses, going back and forth many times per second, whereas in a DC circuit the current flows in a constant direction.
3. The frequency of an AC signal is the number of complete cycles that occur per second, measured in Hertz (Hz).
4. Transformers are essential components in AC power systems, allowing for efficient transmission of power over long distances by stepping up the voltage and stepping down the current.
5. The ability to easily transform AC voltage levels is a key advantage over DC, making it more suitable for large-scale power distribution and transmission.

Review Questions

• Explain the difference between alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) and why AC is the preferred method for power distribution.
  • The key difference between AC and DC is the direction of the electric current flow. In AC, the current periodically reverses direction, while in DC the current flows in a constant direction. AC is the preferred method for power distribution because it can be easily transformed to different voltage levels using a transformer. This allows for efficient long-distance transmission of electrical power by stepping up the voltage and stepping down the current, reducing power losses. Additionally, AC is the standard form of electricity used in most residential, commercial, and industrial applications, making it more compatible with the existing electrical infrastructure.
• Describe the role of frequency in alternating current (AC) and how it is measured.
  • Frequency is a crucial characteristic of alternating current (AC). It represents the number of complete cycles that the current or voltage waveform goes through per second, measured in Hertz (Hz). The frequency of an AC signal determines the rate at which the current and voltage change direction. Higher frequencies result in more cycles per second, while lower frequencies have fewer cycles. Frequency is an important factor in the design and operation of AC power systems, as it affects the performance of various electrical components and the efficiency of power transmission and distribution.
• Explain how transformers enable the efficient transmission of alternating current (AC) over long distances and discuss the significance of this capability.
  • Transformers are essential components in AC power systems that enable the efficient transmission of electrical power over long distances. By stepping up the voltage and stepping down the current, transformers allow for the transmission of AC at high voltages, which reduces power losses due to resistance in the transmission lines. This is a key advantage of AC over DC, as high-voltage DC transmission is more challenging and less efficient. The ability to transform AC voltage levels allows for the centralized generation of electricity and its distribution to distant locations, making the large-scale power grid infrastructure possible. This transformation capability is a crucial factor in the widespread adoption of AC as the standard for electricity distribution and power transmission.

Related terms

Direct Current (DC): Direct current (DC) is the unidirectional flow of electric charge. In DC, the flow of electric charge is in a constant direction, distinguishing it from the changes in direction that occur in alternating current (AC) circuits.

Frequency: Frequency is the number of cycles or oscillations of an alternating current or voltage waveform per unit of time, typically measured in Hertz (Hz).

Transformer: A transformer is a device that transfers electrical energy from one circuit to another through the process of electromagnetic induction, allowing for changes in voltage, current, or impedance.