What does AC stand for in electrical terminology?

The term AC in electrical terminology stands for Alternating Current. This is a type of electrical current where the flow of electric charge periodically reverses direction. This is in contrast to direct current (DC), where the flow of charge is unidirectional. Including the word "alternating" emphasizes the key characteristic of this form of electricity—its oscillating nature, which allows it to be transmitted over long distances with greater efficiency compared to direct current.

In residential and commercial power distribution, AC is predominantly used because it can be easily transformed to different voltage levels, making it versatile for various applications. The ability to change voltage levels is critical for reducing energy loss during electrical transmission.