Average value of AC over a complete cycle is always zero

In summary, the first statement is true and indicates that the average value of AC over a complete cycle is always zero. The second statement is not clearly right or wrong, as it depends on the type of mean being taken. However, it is not a complete explanation for the first statement.
  • #1
atavistic
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Homework Statement



Statement 1: Average value of AC over a complete cycle is always zero.
Statement 2: Average value of AC is always defined over half cycle.

We need to tell whether these two statements are right, and if 1 is right then whether 2 is its explanation.


Homework Equations


Well arithmetic mean = integral f(x)dx/ integral dx
root mean sqaure = root( integral f(x)^2 dx/ integral dx)


The Attempt at a Solution



I think both are false since it depends upon the type of mean we are taking. Arithmetic would be zero and root mean square non zero. And I think we take mean over complete cycle only. But my answer is wrong.
 
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  • #2


Is this the right place to post this?
 
  • #3


Who says your answer is wrong? (or right?)

The first statement is pretty clearly true. If you perform a simple average of a sinusoid over one full cycle it comes out zero.

As you observe, it does not make sense to try to average a periodic function over only half of its period, so the second statement does not look correct. If, however, you make an rms calculation over the half period it will be the correct rms value. So the second statement is not clearly right or wrong, but rather seems just vague as to what it means.
 

FAQ: Average value of AC over a complete cycle is always zero

1. What is the average value of AC over a complete cycle?

The average value of AC over a complete cycle is always zero. This means that the positive and negative values of the AC current cancel each other out over time, resulting in an overall average of zero.

2. Why is the average value of AC over a complete cycle always zero?

The average value of AC over a complete cycle is always zero because of the alternating nature of AC current. As the current oscillates between positive and negative values, the positive and negative values cancel each other out when averaged over a full cycle.

3. Does the frequency of AC affect its average value over a complete cycle?

No, the frequency of AC does not affect its average value over a complete cycle. As long as the frequency remains constant, the positive and negative values will still cancel each other out, resulting in an average value of zero.

4. Is the average value of AC over a complete cycle useful in any way?

Yes, the average value of AC over a complete cycle is useful in determining the power consumption of AC devices. While the average value may be zero, the peak values of the current still play a role in determining the overall power usage of a device.

5. How is the average value of AC over a complete cycle calculated?

The average value of AC over a complete cycle is calculated by finding the sum of all the instantaneous values of the current and dividing it by the number of values. This results in an average value of zero due to the positive and negative values cancelling each other out.

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