Eli5: What’s the difference between a single phase electric current versus a 3 phased one?

Question

Eli5: What’s the difference between a single phase electric current versus a 3 phased one?

In: 18

Answer 1

I have been in the trade continuously for 40 plus years as an Inside Wireman. I have had a Masters license since 1993. 99% of my work is with 3 phase systems.
The big secret is that we just don’t know. Noone knows. We don’t know where it comes from and we don’t know where it goes. We all pretend to know but, none of us do. Also, out of respect, we don’t mention to each other. If a green apprentice asks, we send them to dig ditches for the day.
So, don’t ask.