váltóárammá

Váltóárammá is a Hungarian term that translates to "alternating current" in English. It refers to an electric current that periodically reverses direction. This is in contrast to direct current (DC), where the flow of electric charge is only in one direction.

The most common form of alternating current is a sinusoidal waveform, where the voltage and current vary smoothly over time, rising to a peak in one direction, falling through zero, reaching a peak in the opposite direction, and then returning to zero. The frequency of this alternation is measured in Hertz (Hz), indicating the number of complete cycles per second.

Alternating current is the standard form of electricity delivered to homes and businesses worldwide. This is due to several key advantages over direct current. Transformers can easily step alternating current voltage up or down, which is crucial for efficient long-distance power transmission. High voltages reduce current, thereby minimizing energy loss due to resistance in the transmission lines. Once at its destination, the voltage can be stepped down to safer and more usable levels for appliances and devices.

Major figures like Nikola Tesla and George Westinghouse were instrumental in developing and popularizing alternating current systems in the late 19th century, leading to what is known as the "War of the Currents" against proponents of direct current, such as Thomas Edison. The widespread adoption of AC systems ultimately proved more practical and economical for large-scale power distribution.