Features of This Book

As stated in the preface this book is designed primarily for the person continuing a study of basic electricity — the entry level student. It assumes that the reader has a basic knowledge of the principles of direct current (dc) electricity and a basic mathematics background that includes some algebra.

There are several features of this book specifically designed to increase its efficiency and help the reader grasp the principles of analyzing ac circuits.

At the beginning of each chapter, detailed objectives are listed. These objectives state what new things you should be able to do upon successful completion of the chapter. It is suggested that these objectives be read before beginning the chapter.

At the end of each chapter, there are three types of diagnostic material to help the reader better understand the basic concepts and apply the principles and techniques discussed in the chapter. One is a set of worked-through examples, with detailed step-by-step solutions. These worked-through examples apply the theory in each chapter to typical applications involving ac circuits. In this way you are led from the knowledge of the concepts you need to know, to the application of those concepts to ac circuit problems and applications.

Another is a set of practice problems with answers provided in the instructor’s manual. These problems give you the opportunity to try your new knowledge and test your accuracy in applying that knowledge.

Finally, there is a quiz consisting of questions with answers provided in the instructor’s manual. The quiz can be taken in a relatively short period of time, and it will indicate areas in which you are proficient and areas in which you need to further review key concepts and principles.