AC stands for **Alternating Current**, which is a type of electrical current that reverses direction periodically. It's what powers most of our household and industrial electrical systems. Here are some common examples of where AC is used:
1. **Household Electrical Supply**: In most homes, the electricity supplied by power companies is AC. Itβs what powers lights, appliances, and electronics.
2. **Electric Motors**: Many motors, such as those in refrigerators, fans, and air conditioners, use AC. AC motors are efficient and easy to design for a wide range of applications.
3. **Transformers**: AC is used in transformers to change the voltage levels for long-distance transmission of electricity. High-voltage AC is used to minimize energy loss during transmission.
4. **Power Lines**: The electricity carried by power lines from the power plants to homes and businesses is AC. This allows for efficient transmission over long distances.
5. **Air Conditioners**: Many air conditioning units use AC to run their motors and compressors.
6. **Electric Generators**: AC generators (alternators) are used in power plants to produce electricity. They convert mechanical energy into electrical energy.
7. **Tvs and Radios**: The circuits inside many of our devices, like televisions and radios, use AC for power, especially in converting electricity to usable forms for components.
In contrast to DC (Direct Current), where the current flows in only one direction, ACβs changing direction helps in efficient energy transmission and distribution across distances.