Instantaneous values

This is the value taken from the voltage at any instant in time.

Value taken from the voltage at any instant in time

We identify Vmax = Vp as the maximum value, with Vp is the peak value of the signal that corresponds to the value of the amplitude. And Vmin = -Vp is the minimum value of the signal.

Maximum and minimum values and peak-to-peak value

Phase difference in a signal

Here the difference in phase between signals is presented.

The alternating signal is generated by the signal generator and can be seen on an oscilloscope.

 

If a value of a direct signal is constant value, e.g. this does not change over time: it starts at 5 V and this remains over time. The alternating current generator can generate a sinusoidal or triangular, etc. pattern signal. The representative value of an alternating signal is the signal changed over the time.

The direct signal in an electrical circuit is associated with a direct source (DC power), whereas the alternating signal is associated with a function generator.

Taking the above into account, the power supply changes over time and therefore the voltage drop and current are changed frequently. The oscilloscope shows us such changes or evolution of the voltage at a point in the circuit.