What defines a sine wave in AC?

What defines a sine wave in AC?

• A. Constant voltage line
• B. Periodic oscillation of voltage and current
• C. Voltage drop over time
• D. Fixed point amplitude

Answer: (B)

A sine wave in alternating current (AC) is characterized by its periodic nature, which is the oscillation of voltage and current over time. This means that the values of voltage and current change regularly and symmetrically in positive and negative cycles, creating a smooth wave-like pattern when graphed. The defining feature of a sine wave is that it represents how current or voltage varies sinusoidally, which is fundamental to understanding AC circuits. In contrast, a constant voltage line does not exhibit oscillation; it remains level and does not change, which does not represent the dynamic characteristics of AC power. Voltage drop over time refers to the decline in voltage due to resistance or load but does not convey the oscillatory nature of a sine wave. A fixed point amplitude would suggest a static value without the continuous variation that characterizes a sine wave's rising and falling peaks. Therefore, the periodic oscillation of voltage and current is the most accurate definition of a sine wave in AC systems, capturing the essential behavior of alternating current.

A sine wave in alternating current (AC) is characterized by its periodic nature, which is the oscillation of voltage and current over time. This means that the values of voltage and current change regularly and symmetrically in positive and negative cycles, creating a smooth wave-like pattern when graphed. The defining feature of a sine wave is that it represents how current or voltage varies sinusoidally, which is fundamental to understanding AC circuits.

In contrast, a constant voltage line does not exhibit oscillation; it remains level and does not change, which does not represent the dynamic characteristics of AC power. Voltage drop over time refers to the decline in voltage due to resistance or load but does not convey the oscillatory nature of a sine wave. A fixed point amplitude would suggest a static value without the continuous variation that characterizes a sine wave's rising and falling peaks. Therefore, the periodic oscillation of voltage and current is the most accurate definition of a sine wave in AC systems, capturing the essential behavior of alternating current.