Where to start? Right I have always had a problem understanding AC, mainly how the neutral stays neutral if the current is flowing in both directions. So I hope somebody here can steer me in the correct direction of thought.
This is what I think I understand, in electrical (mains) circuit 50Hz, the phase/live wire has potential 25 times a second (when there is no load/return connected), for the other 25 times it is looking ? for potential from the neutral wire.
Looking at generators the polarity changes on each wire as the magnet rotates within the coil, so one wire becomes + the other and visa versa, I assume that one of these wires is referenced to earth at the generation station to give the neutral and I suppose this is where my problem originates from (does that + cycle go into the ground?)
how does the neutral wire stay neutral if the potential changes polarity and current is flowing in both directions.
I realise this could be the dumbest question ever .so I am ready for a toasting..
This is what I think I understand, in electrical (mains) circuit 50Hz, the phase/live wire has potential 25 times a second (when there is no load/return connected), for the other 25 times it is looking ? for potential from the neutral wire.
Looking at generators the polarity changes on each wire as the magnet rotates within the coil, so one wire becomes + the other and visa versa, I assume that one of these wires is referenced to earth at the generation station to give the neutral and I suppose this is where my problem originates from (does that + cycle go into the ground?)
how does the neutral wire stay neutral if the potential changes polarity and current is flowing in both directions.
I realise this could be the dumbest question ever .so I am ready for a toasting..