How does alternating current work and what are its key principles?

Alternating current (AC) is a type of electrical current that changes direction periodically. It is generated by power plants and used in homes and businesses. The key principles of AC include voltage, frequency, and phase. Voltage is the force that pushes the electric charge, frequency is the number of cycles per second, and phase refers to the timing of the current's peaks and valleys. AC is able to be easily transformed and transmitted over long distances, making it the preferred choice for electricity distribution.