AC (Alternating Current) frequency refers to the number of times the current changes direction per second. It's measured in
Hertz (Hz), which represents cycles per second.
In an AC power supply, the voltage and current oscillate (reverse direction) periodically. For example, in many countries, the standard AC frequency is
50 Hz or
60 Hz:
- 50 Hz means the current changes direction 50 times per second.
- 60 Hz means the current changes direction 60 times per second.
This frequency is important because it affects how electrical devices are designed to operate, like motors and transformers. The power grid in each country is designed to run at a specific frequency, and changing this can cause appliances to malfunction.