Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
AC circuits, or alternating current circuits, are electrical circuits in which the direction of current periodically reverses. This means that the flow of electrons alternates back and forth in a regular pattern.
Related terms
Frequency: The frequency of an AC circuit refers to how many complete cycles or oscillations occur per second. It is measured in hertz (Hz).
Amplitude: The amplitude of an AC circuit represents the maximum value or strength of the alternating current. It indicates how far the electrons move from their equilibrium position.
Phase Difference: Phase difference refers to the time delay between two waves or signals in an AC circuit. It measures how much one wave is shifted compared to another wave.