The term AC stands for Alternating Current. It is a current in which the movement of an electric charge reverses direction on a regular basis. In other words, alternating current varies its direction and magnitude on a regular basis, i.e., it starts at zero, increases to a maximum, returns to zero, grows to a maximum in the opposite direction, and finally returns to zero. Nikola Tesla invented an alternating current.
Alternating Current Production
Alternators are devices that create alternating currents. However, there are several ways to generate AC by utilizing various circuits. Aside from that, one of the simplest ways to generate AC is to use a single-coil AC generator, which consists of two-pole magnets and a single loop of rectangle-shaped wire. This method generates alternating current (AC) by using Faraday’s principle of electromagnetic induction, which converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.
Meanwhile, three wires are used to transmit alternating current to various types of devices. The list is as follows:
- The hot wire is used to transmit power.
- The neutral wire, which is grounded, serves as a return path for the current in the hot wire.
- The apparatus’s metallic components are connected to the third wire, which is also connected to the ground, principally to eliminate the risk of electric shock.
Advantages of AC
- The hot wire is used to transmit power
- The neutral wire, which is grounded, serves as a return path for the current in the hot wire
- The apparatus’s metallic components are connected to the third wire, which is also connected to the ground, principally to eliminate the risk of electric shock
Disadvantages of AC
- Though less dangerous than DC, it is more enticing, in that, unlike DC, which generates an unpleasant shock, it attracts anybody who touches it
- Working with alternating current is far more dangerous than working with high-voltage direct current
- AC cannot be used for electrofishing, electroplating, or similar processes
- Batteries cannot be charged directly using alternating current
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