How does single-phase power differ from three-phase power?

Single-phase power is characterized by the presence of a single alternating current (AC) waveform. In a single-phase system, the voltage alternates in a sinusoidal manner but only has one cycle of alternating current, which contrasts sharply with three-phase power systems that consist of three separate waveforms, each phase offset by 120 degrees.

The primary benefit of single-phase power is that it is simpler and sufficient for many residential and light commercial applications where the total power demand is relatively low. Single-phase systems are common in households, where the appliances and lighting typically do not require the higher power levels provided by three-phase systems. Conversely, three-phase power is more complex, providing a more consistent power supply and higher capacity, which is advantageous for industrial applications and larger electrical loads.

While other choices might touch on aspects related to efficiency and voltage, the distinguishing feature of single-phase electricity is indeed its single waveform, which fundamentally affects how power is distributed and utilized in different applications. Understanding this basic difference is essential for electrical theory and practical applications.