What type of current alternates direction periodically?

Alternating Current (AC) is characterized by its ability to change direction periodically. This means that the flow of electric charge reverses itself at specified intervals. AC is used extensively in power systems, such as in household circuits, because it allows for efficient transmission of electricity over long distances.

The periodic nature of AC is represented in its waveform, typically a sine wave, where the voltage and current rise and fall symmetrically over time. This alternating direction is crucial for its function in powering numerous appliances and for enabling devices like transformers to operate efficiently.

In contrast, Direct Current (DC) flows in only one direction and is commonly used in batteries and electronic devices. Pulsating Current, while it involves fluctuations, does not have the same consistent periodicity or full reversal of direction as AC. Static Current, on the other hand, refers to a condition where electrical charges are at rest and do not flow, leading to no current whatsoever. Understanding these distinctions is essential for anyone working with electrical systems and for grasping the broader concepts of electricity.