In residential electrical power systems (homes), which type of current is supplied by the utility to wall outlets?

• A. Pulsed direct current, consisting of periodic bursts of one-direction current
• B. Alternating current (AC), whose direction reverses periodically
• C. Purely capacitive displacement current with no conduction current in the wires
• D. Direct current (DC), flowing in only one direction at constant magnitude

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the types of electrical current: Direct Current (DC) flows in one constant direction, Alternating Current (AC) periodically reverses direction, and pulsed DC consists of bursts of current in one direction.
2. Recall that residential electrical power systems are designed to deliver electricity efficiently over long distances and to power a wide variety of household devices.
3. Recognize that Alternating Current (AC) is used in homes because it can be easily transformed to different voltages and transmitted efficiently.
4. Note that the direction of AC current reverses periodically, typically at a frequency of 50 or 60 Hz depending on the country.
5. Conclude that the current supplied by the utility to wall outlets is Alternating Current (AC), which reverses direction periodically.