Alternating current
Most of our everyday uses of electricity are when electrons are moving in A material which allows charge to move easily through it. 鈥 this is current flow as opposed to static electricity.
Direct current (d.c.) is a one-way flow of Subatomic particle, with a negative charge and a negligible mass relative to protons and neutrons. from negative to positive terminals of a power supply.
Alternating current (a.c.) is an oscillation of electrons or 'back and forward' movement.
One full cycle of alternating current is shown in the diagram below:
In the first half of the cycle the Moving electric charges, eg electrons moving through a metal wire. flow is in one direction. In the second half the current flow reverses.
Oscilloscopes are used to display a.c. waveforms. The y-axis plots the voltage across a Working parts of a product or system.. The x-axis shows how this changes over time.
An oscilloscope trace allows us to determine two important quantities of an a.c. signal: frequency and peak voltage.
Question
Why is alternating current used so extensively around the world?
Transformers can increase and decrease The potential difference across a cell, electrical supply or electrical component. It is measured in volts (V). in a.c. supply networks. Using transformers reduces current flow in transmission lines and saves energy when supplying electricity over large distances.