What does the term "phase" refer to in AC signals?

The term "phase" in AC signals specifically refers to the position within a waveform cycle. In an alternating current (AC) signal, the phase indicates how far along the signal is in its cycle at any given point in time. This position is measured in degrees (0° to 360°) or radians, with a complete cycle representing a full 360-degree rotation.

Understanding phase is essential because it affects how multiple AC signals interact with each other. For example, if two waveforms are perfectly in phase (i.e., they have the same phase angle), their amplitudes add together, resulting in a stronger signal. Conversely, if they are out of phase, it could lead to cancellation of signal amplitudes. Therefore, phase is a key parameter in analyzing and processing AC signals in various applications, including telecommunications and power systems.