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Re: AC electricity



Thanks Jack,
This really helps too.
Tim
Hi Tim-
I don't think anyone answered your question. You
ask:
In a system where the potential energy oscillates
sinusoidally, how can any energy be delivered?
But your question only makes sense in a system where
energy is conserved. A mass hanging from an ideal spring,
oscillating in a vacuum will oscillate forever. If,
however, the mass is suspended in a bucket of molasses, the
molasses heats up and the oscillations stop.
The clue to your puzzlement is that AC only delivers
energy as long as it's connected to the wall socket.
Disconnect the circuit and the oscillations stop (except in
a superconductor). So the resistance of the circuit is the
"molasses" that stops the oscillations.
Tim O'Donnell
Instructor of Physics and Chemistry
Celina High School
715 East Wayne Street
Celina, Ohio 45822
(419) 586-8300 Ext 1200 or 1201
odonnt@celina.k12.oh.us

"Chance only favors the prepared mind." - Louis Pasteur