In an alternating current (AC) electrical system, **L** and **N** stand for **Live (or Line)** and **Neutral**. Here's a simple explanation:
- **L (Live or Line)**: This is the wire that carries the current from the power source to the electrical device. It is also called the "hot" wire and usually carries voltage that fluctuates between positive and negative values in AC systems.
- **N (Neutral)**: This wire completes the circuit by carrying the current back to the power source. It is usually at or close to zero voltage, providing a safe return path for the current.
In a typical AC electrical setup:
- **Live (L)** carries the current to your appliances.
- **Neutral (N)** carries the current back, completing the circuit.
Both wires work together to provide the power you need, but the **Live** wire is the one that carries the electrical potential, while the **Neutral** wire provides a path for the current to flow back.