Alternating current

This is the most common type of current used
today. In the United States, all electricity is
generated as alternating current. It is called
alternating current because first the current
flows in one direction then it will flow in the
opposite direction and so on. The current
alternates between two opposite directions. (It is
often represented by a side-ways “s”) Alternating
current is used in homes for lighting, heating,
cooking, and operating appliances. Industry
uses it primarily to operate motors but also for
lighting and equipment operation. The
abbreviation for alternating current is “AC”.