ARRL Technician Practice Exam

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Prepare for the ARRL Technician Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

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What term describes the number of times per second that an alternating current reverses direction?

Voltage
Frequency
Capacitance
Impedance

The correct answer is: Frequency

The term that describes the number of times per second that an alternating current reverses direction is frequency. In electrical terms, frequency is measured in hertz (Hz), where one hertz is equivalent to one cycle per second. When an alternating current (AC) flows, it periodically changes direction, and the frequency indicates how often this change occurs within a second. For example, in North America, the standard frequency for AC electricity is typically 60 Hz, meaning the current reverses direction 60 times each second. This characteristic is vital for understanding how electrical systems operate, as many devices are designed to work with a specific frequency. Understanding frequency is crucial for technicians and engineers when designing and troubleshooting AC circuits, ensuring compatibility with different electrical standards.