Visualizing Electron Flow in Alternating Current Circuits

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on visualizing electron flow in alternating current (AC) circuits, contrasting it with direct current (DC) circuits. Participants explore the concept of electrons moving in both directions, akin to particles accelerating and decelerating in a periodic motion. The analogy of simple harmonic motion is suggested to aid in understanding the behavior of electrons in AC circuits. The conversation highlights the complexity of visualizing AC flow compared to the straightforward nature of DC flow.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic electrical concepts, including voltage and current.
  • Familiarity with direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) principles.
  • Knowledge of particle motion and basic physics concepts like simple harmonic motion.
  • Experience with circuit diagrams and basic electrical components such as resistors.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical representation of AC waveforms, including sine and cosine functions.
  • Explore simulations of AC circuits using tools like LTspice or Multisim.
  • Study the effects of frequency and amplitude on AC circuit behavior.
  • Learn about phasors and their application in analyzing AC circuits.
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, electrical engineers, and educators looking to deepen their understanding of alternating current behavior and its visualization techniques.

PhysicsBegner
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Hi All,

I have a very basic question in understanding alternating current. When we learn about DC circuits we would start with a simple circuit with a resistor with one current direction (either electron or hole current) and it was said that electors move in one direction.

But when we start with understanding Alternating current it is said that current with varying direction and magnitude. I have a problem in visualizing this in terms of particle flow in a circuit. Would it be like particles accelarte in one direction for a fraction of second and de-accelerating and again accelrating towards other direction?

Could we imagine this to a body vibrating in a periodic or simple harmonic motion. Or is there any way we can visualize the electron flow in AC circuits.

Thank you.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Hi Hassan2,

Thank you. I would post in that thread for my further thoughts if any.
 

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