Vekselstrømkilde

Vekselstrømkilde refers to an electrical power source that produces alternating current. This means the direction of the electric current periodically reverses, unlike direct current which flows in only one direction. The most common example of a vekselstrømkilde is the electrical grid that supplies power to homes and businesses, which typically operates at a specific frequency, such as 50 Hz or 60 Hz.

The output voltage of a vekselstrømkilde is also not constant but varies sinusoidally over time. This sinusoidal waveform is characterized by its amplitude, frequency, and phase. The frequency determines how many times the current reverses direction per second, while the amplitude represents the peak voltage. The phase indicates the timing of the waveform relative to a reference point.

Vekselstrøm is widely used due to its ease of transformation to different voltage levels using transformers. This ability is crucial for efficient power transmission over long distances, as high voltages reduce energy loss. Conversely, voltages are stepped down for safe use in residential and industrial settings. Generators in power plants are the primary source of vekselstrøm, converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. Batteries, on the other hand, are examples of direct current sources.