Hot Wires: Does AC Current Flow from Hot to Neutral?

  • Thread starter M.Kalai vanan
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In summary, AC current (alternating current) flows back and forth typically 60 times per second and can flow back and forth to the neutral if it is wired that way. The neutral is center tapped at the secondary of the transformer, cutting the voltage in half. The end of the neutral is connected to a winding on the transformer supplying the power and to ground. Both the hot and neutral conductors are involved in the transfer of power, with the neutral being just as important as the hot conductor. The neutral and ground are tied together in the main panel and transformer secondary.
  • #1
M.Kalai vanan
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does ac current always flows from hot to neutral wire.if so where is the end of the neutral wire?
 
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  • #2
AC current (alternating current) flows back and forth typically 60 times per second...or 60 hz (in USA).

It can flow back and forth to the neutral if it is wired that way...or it can flow line to line, or hot to hot so to speak.

I assume you are referring to a 240/120 house panel? If so, the neutral is center tapped at the secondary of the transformer to the house cutting the voltage in half. Line to line is 240...line to neutral is 120volt.

If you are reffering to something else, please be more specific in your question.
 
  • #3
The "hot " leads refer to being able to deliver the power, the neutral is - at some point, connected to ground, and is LESS hazardous and on its own not used to provide the power, and as PSP reported it is AC - the current flows back and forth.

The end of the neutral is in two places - just to confuse you - it is connected to a winding on the transformer supplying the power and to ground.
 
  • #4
Windadct said:
The "hot " leads refer to being able to deliver the power, the neutral is - at some point, connected to ground, and is LESS hazardous and on its own not used to provide the power, and as PSP reported it is AC - the current flows back and forth.

The end of the neutral is in two places - just to confuse you - it is connected to a winding on the transformer supplying the power and to ground.

Both conductors are involved in the transfer of Power. You can't say the Neutral is any less of a contributor than the Live conductor. (No current is supposed to flow through the Earth / Ground). It just so happens that the Potential Difference between Neutral and Earth is (near) zero but it's of no consequence in the power situation.
 
  • #5
And just to make it "in your face clear" on a 240 volt single phase system:

Hot to hot...240 volts
Hot to neutral...120 volts
Hot to ground...120 volts
Neutral to ground...nada...zero volts.

The neutral and ground are tied together in your main house panel...and the neutral and ground are tied together in the secondary of its transformer. The grounds are both "earthed" as well at the main panel and transformer secondary.
 

Related to Hot Wires: Does AC Current Flow from Hot to Neutral?

What is the difference between AC and DC currents?

AC stands for alternating current, which means that the flow of electricity periodically changes direction. DC, on the other hand, stands for direct current and flows in only one direction.

Why is it important to understand the flow of AC current from hot to neutral?

Understanding the flow of AC current is important because it helps us understand how electricity works and how to safely use and handle it. It also allows us to troubleshoot and diagnose problems in electrical systems.

Does AC current always flow from hot to neutral?

In a typical AC circuit, the current flows from the hot wire to the neutral wire. However, there are some exceptions such as in a three-way switch or in a 240V circuit where the current can flow in both directions.

What would happen if AC current flowed from neutral to hot?

If the AC current were to flow from neutral to hot, it would cause a short circuit, which could result in damage to the electrical system or even fire. This is why it is important to properly wire and ground electrical systems.

How does the flow of AC current affect electrical devices?

The flow of AC current is essential for electrical devices to operate. The alternating current powers the device and allows it to perform its intended function. Without the correct flow of AC current, devices may not work properly or could be damaged.

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