Alternating_Current_Physics_Project
Alternating_Current_Physics_Project
Physics Project
Topic: Alternating Current (AC)
Name: ____________________
Class: ____________________
School: ____________________
Teacher: ____________________
Date: ____________________
Alternating Current (AC)
Acknowledgement
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to my Physics teacher for guiding me through this project on
'Alternating Current'. I would also like to thank my parents and friends for their constant support and
encouragement.
Alternating Current (AC)
Index
1. Introduction to Electricity
2. DC vs AC
4. Generation of AC
5. Mathematical Representation of AC
6. Types of AC Waveforms
7. Advantages of AC
9. AC Circuits
12. Transformers
Alternating Current (AC)
14. Applications of AC
16. Conclusion
17. Bibliography
Alternating Current (AC)
Introduction to Electricity
Electricity is the flow of electric charge. It powers homes, industries, and devices. Electric current is the rate
DC vs AC
Direct Current (DC) flows in one direction, while Alternating Current (AC) changes direction periodically. DC
is used in batteries, while AC is used in power supply systems due to its efficiency in transmission.
Alternating Current (AC)
Alternating Current (AC) is an electric current that reverses direction periodically. It is represented by a sine
Generation of AC
AC is generated using alternators. These generators rotate a coil within a magnetic field, inducing an
Mathematical Representation of AC
AC can be expressed as: I(t) = I0 sin(omegat + phi), where I0 is the peak current, omega is the angular
Types of AC Waveforms
Common AC waveforms include sine, square, and triangular waves. Each has specific applications in
Advantages of AC
AC can be easily transformed to different voltages, transmitted over long distances with minimal loss, and is
RMS (Root Mean Square) value of AC is equivalent to the value of DC that gives the same heating effect.
Average value is the average over a half cycle for sine wave: I_avg = (2/pi)I0.
Alternating Current (AC)
AC Circuits
In AC circuits, resistance (R), inductance (L), and capacitance (C) affect the current flow. Impedance (Z) is
the combination of these elements and determines the total opposition to current.
Alternating Current (AC)
Phasor Diagrams
Phasors represent sinusoidal functions as rotating vectors. They help visualize the phase relationships in AC
circuits.
Alternating Current (AC)
Power in AC Circuits
AC power includes real power (P), reactive power (Q), and apparent power (S). Power factor (cosphi)
indicates efficiency.
Alternating Current (AC)
Transformers
Transformers change the voltage levels of AC. They work on the principle of electromagnetic induction using
Electricity is transmitted over long distances using high-voltage AC. Step-up and step-down transformers
Applications of AC
AC is widely used in households, industries, and transportation systems due to its efficiency and versatility.
Alternating Current (AC)
AC can be dangerous if mishandled. Safety devices like fuses, circuit breakers, and proper insulation are
essential.
Alternating Current (AC)
Conclusion
Alternating Current is a cornerstone of modern electrical systems. Its efficiency and ease of transmission
Bibliography
3. www.electronics-tutorials.ws