Chapter 16: Alternating Current

This is a sixteenth chapter of the book Physics 12 published by Punjab Curriculum and Textbook Board, Lahore, Pakistan.

After studying this chapter, the students will be able to:

• Understand and describe time period, frequency, the peak and root mean square values of an alternating current and voltage.
• Know and use the relationship for the sinusoidal wave.
• Understand the flow of A.C. through resistors, capacitors and inductors.
• Understand how phase lags and leads in the circuit.
• Apply the knowledge to calculate the reactances of capacitors and inductors.
• Describe impedance as vector summation of resistances.
• Know and use the formulae ofA.C. power to solve the problems.
• Understand the function of resonant circuits.
• Appreciate the principle of metal detectors used for security checks.
• Describe the three phase A.C. supply.
• Become familiar with electromagnetic spectrum (ranging from radio waves to $7$ rays).
• Know the production, transmission and reception of electromagnetic waves.