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Chapter 13 of 14
Flashcards

Alternating Current

CBSE · Class 12 · Physics

Flashcards for Alternating Current — CBSE Class 12 Physics. Quick Q&A cards covering key concepts, definitions, and formulas.

45 questions22 flashcards5 concepts
22 Flashcards
Card 1Introduction to AC

What is alternating current (AC) and how does it differ from direct current (DC)?

Answer

Alternating current (AC) is current that changes direction periodically with time, varying like a sine function. Unlike DC which flows in one direction only, AC current reverses direction every half c

Card 2RMS Values

Define RMS (Root Mean Square) value and write the formula for RMS current.

Answer

RMS value is the effective value of AC current that produces the same heating effect as DC current. For current: I = im/√2 = 0.707 im, where im is peak current. Similarly, for voltage: V = vm/√2 = 0.7

Card 3AC through Resistor

When AC voltage v = vm sin ωt is applied to a resistor R, what is the current expression and phase relationship?

Answer

Current through resistor: i = im sin ωt, where im = vm/R. The current is IN PHASE with voltage (phase difference = 0°). Both voltage and current reach maximum, minimum, and zero values at the same tim

Card 4AC through Inductor

What is inductive reactance? Write its formula and unit.

Answer

Inductive reactance (XL) is the opposition offered by an inductor to AC current. Formula: XL = ωL = 2πfL, where ω is angular frequency, f is frequency, and L is inductance. Unit: Ohm (Ω). XL increases

Card 5AC through Inductor

When AC voltage is applied to a pure inductor, what is the phase relationship between current and voltage?

Answer

In a pure inductor, current LAGS voltage by π/2 (90°). Current expression: i = im sin(ωt - π/2), where im = vm/XL. The current reaches maximum value one-quarter cycle (T/4) after voltage reaches maxim

Card 6AC through Capacitor

What is capacitive reactance? Write its formula and explain its frequency dependence.

Answer

Capacitive reactance (XC) is the opposition offered by a capacitor to AC current. Formula: XC = 1/(ωC) = 1/(2πfC), where C is capacitance. Unit: Ohm (Ω). XC is INVERSELY proportional to frequency and

Card 7AC through Capacitor

When AC voltage is applied to a pure capacitor, what is the phase relationship between current and voltage?

Answer

In a pure capacitor, current LEADS voltage by π/2 (90°). Current expression: i = im sin(ωt + π/2), where im = vm/XC. The current reaches maximum value one-quarter cycle (T/4) before voltage reaches ma

Card 8Phasors

What is a phasor? How does it help in AC circuit analysis?

Answer

A phasor is a rotating vector that represents AC quantities (voltage/current). It rotates with angular velocity ω. The magnitude represents amplitude, and the vertical projection gives instantaneous v

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Sources & Official References

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