Alternating Current
What is a Transformer? Transformers are fascinating devices that play a fundamental role in the field of electricity and power systems. They are like magical machines that can change the voltage of electricity, allowing us to efficiently transmit and use electrical energy in various applications. Understanding transformers is essential for anyone interested in how electricity … Read more
Understanding LC Oscillations LC oscillations occur in a circuit where a capacitor and an inductor are connected together. This type of circuit is known as an LC circuit, and it’s a fundamental concept in the study of physics, especially when dealing with alternating current (AC) circuits. How LC Oscillations Occur Imagine you have a charged … Read more
Electrical Resonance Resonance in a series RLC circuit is a condition that occurs when the frequency of the voltage source causes the inductive reactance XL to equal the capacitive reactance XC At this point, the circuit’s impedance Z is at its minimum value, and it is purely resistive, meaning XL = XC. This makes the … Read more
When AC voltage is applied to a series LCR circuit, the voltage source alternates, causing the current to change direction periodically. This current interacts with each component in the circuit—resistor, inductor, and capacitor —in unique ways due to their distinct properties: In a series LCR circuit connected to an AC source (let’s call it \(\displaystyle … Read more
Imagine you have a capacitor, which is like a little electric storage tank. Now, instead of giving it steady electrical power (like from a battery), we connect it to AC voltage. AC voltage is like the electricity that switches back and forth, like a swinging pendulum. When you connect AC voltage to a capacitor, something … Read more
An inductor is a passive device that stores energy in a magnetic field when electric current flows through it. When an alternating current (AC) is applied to an inductor, the inductor can oppose or block the passage of the AC through it. This is due to the property of inductance, which is the measure of … Read more
Phasor Diagrams A phasor diagram is a graphical representation that shows the magnitude and phase relationship between different quantities in an alternating current circuit. It’s used to analyze the behavior of voltages and currents in AC circuits and helps in understanding the concept of phase difference and power factor. Phasor Representation AC current and voltage … Read more
Think of AC voltage like a swing going back and forth. Sometimes it pushes you forward, sometimes backward. Now, imagine a resistor as a narrow path. When the swing pushes you forward, you try to walk along the path. It’s tough because the path is narrow and slows you down. This is like when the … Read more