What is the term used for the reversing of current direction in an AC circuit?

The term used for the reversing of current direction in an AC circuit is called phase reversal. This phenomenon occurs because alternating current (AC) inherently changes its direction periodically. In a typical AC circuit, the current and voltage oscillate in a sinusoidal pattern, meaning they consistently flow back and forth rather than remaining in a single direction as in direct current (DC) circuits.

Phase reversal specifically refers to the point in time when the current switches from flowing in one direction to the opposite direction. This concept is crucial in the understanding of how AC circuits operate, as it impacts the design and functioning of electrical equipment and systems that use AC power.

Other terms mentioned in the options describe different concepts. Phase shift refers to a shift in the waveforms of current and voltage, which can affect the timing of their peaks and troughs relative to each other. Current reversal is a more general description rather than a technical term specifically used in electrical theory. Signal inversion sometimes refers to altering the phase or polarity of a signal but does not directly address the periodic nature of current direction in AC. Thus, phase reversal is the most accurate and commonly used term in this context.