Visualizing Electron Flow in Alternating Current Circuits

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Understanding alternating current (AC) involves recognizing that electrons do not flow in a single direction as they do in direct current (DC) circuits. Instead, in AC circuits, electrons oscillate back and forth, changing direction and magnitude periodically. This oscillation can be visualized similarly to a body undergoing simple harmonic motion, where particles accelerate in one direction and then reverse. The challenge lies in grasping this dynamic movement compared to the steady flow in DC circuits. Visualizing electron flow in AC requires conceptualizing these rapid directional changes and the periodic nature of the current.
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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.
 
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Hi Hassan2,

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

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