What type of current continuously changes in magnitude and reverses direction in a sine-wave pattern?

What type of current continuously changes in magnitude and reverses direction in a sine-wave pattern?

• A. Alternating Current
• B. Direct Current
• C. Pulsating Current
• D. Mixed Current

Answer: (A)

Alternating current is the type that continuously changes in magnitude and reverses direction, typically following a sine-wave pattern. The current swings from zero to a positive peak, back through zero to a negative peak, and back again, so the flow direction flips with each cycle. The magnitude varies as the sine function, defined by its amplitude and frequency. Direct current stays in one direction with relatively constant magnitude, while pulsating current changes magnitude but not direction, and mixed current isn’t a standard sinusoidal waveform used in power systems.

Alternating current is the type that continuously changes in magnitude and reverses direction, typically following a sine-wave pattern. The current swings from zero to a positive peak, back through zero to a negative peak, and back again, so the flow direction flips with each cycle. The magnitude varies as the sine function, defined by its amplitude and frequency. Direct current stays in one direction with relatively constant magnitude, while pulsating current changes magnitude but not direction, and mixed current isn’t a standard sinusoidal waveform used in power systems.