vahelduvvooluvõrku

Vahelduvvooluvõrku, often abbreviated as AC grid or simply mains electricity, refers to the electrical power distribution system that supplies alternating current. Alternating current is characterized by its direction of flow periodically reversing. This is in contrast to direct current (DC), where the flow of electricity is constant in one direction. The fundamental principle behind AC is that voltage and current fluctuate sinusoidally over time.

The widespread adoption of AC in power grids is largely due to its efficiency in transmission over long distances. Transformers, which operate on the principle of electromagnetic induction, can easily step up AC voltage for transmission, thereby reducing current and minimizing energy loss due to resistance in the wires. Conversely, transformers can step down the voltage to safe levels for consumption in homes and industries. This ability to efficiently transform voltage is a key advantage of AC systems.

Major electricity-generating stations produce AC power. This power is then transmitted through a network of high-voltage transmission lines. Before reaching end-users, the voltage is progressively reduced at substations and distribution transformers to levels suitable for household appliances and industrial machinery. The standard frequency of AC power varies globally, with 50 Hz and 60 Hz being the most common. Understanding the principles of vahelduvvooluvõrku is essential for comprehending how electricity is delivered to our daily lives.