Alternating Current Theory (Chapter 4-2)

A collection of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to alternating and direct current, including definitions and characteristics.

Alternating Current (AC)

An electric current that periodically reverses direction and changes its magnitude continuously with time.

Direct Current (DC)

An electric current that flows in one direction only.

Frequency

The number of cycles occurring per second, measured in hertz (Hz).

Amplitude (Vm)

The maximum value of a sinusoidal waveform.

Period (T)

The time taken for one complete cycle of a waveform, measured in seconds.

RMS (Root Mean Square)

A value representing the effective voltage or current of an AC waveform.

Sinusoidal Waveform

A waveform that can be described by a sine function of time, typically representing AC.

Angular Velocity (ω)

The rate of change of angle per unit time, measured in radians per second.

Mean Value of AC

The average value of an alternating current or voltage over one complete cycle.

Peak Value

The maximum value of a waveform during a cycle.

Power Factor

A measure of how effectively the current is being converted into useful work, often expressed as a ratio.