Eli5: What does the frequency (Hz) have to do with electrical output? If the world has 50/60 Hz frequency for their outlets, what exactly does that mean/do? Is it as simple as if it goes below/exceeds the specified frequency it just gives/reduces power output or something different?
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Hertz is just a measure of how many times something happens per second. In the case of electricity, Hertz is referring to the amount of times every second that the current changes direction back and forth in an alternating current. eg. 50 Hz = 50 changes per second.
From my knowledge Alternating current is used because the alternative, Direct Current, doesn’t work in transformers which means the national grid can’t change the voltage of the power, so it’s inefficient due to the heat generated from cables at a high current.
Alternating current must be at specifically 50Hz or 60Hz, or whatever the standard is because appliances are made for specific Hz’ will often be damaged if the wrong Hertz is used.
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