In the context of A.C. (alternating current) fundamentals, the term "time period" refers to a fundamental parameter of an AC waveform. Alternating current is characterized by its periodic variation in voltage and current over time. The time period is the duration it takes for one complete cycle of the AC waveform to occur.
Mathematically, the time period (T) is the reciprocal of the frequency (f) of the AC waveform. It is usually measured in seconds (s) and is represented by the formula:
=
1
T=
f
1
Where:
T = Time period (in seconds)
f = Frequency of the AC waveform (in hertz, Hz)
For example, if an AC waveform has a frequency of 50 Hz (cycles per second), the time period would be:
=
1
50
=
0.02
seconds
T=
50
1
=0.02seconds
This means that it takes 0.02 seconds for one complete cycle of the waveform to occur.
In practical terms, understanding the time period is important for various applications involving AC circuits and systems, including designing electronic components, calculating phase differences, and determining the behavior of AC signals in different types of circuits.