What is the standard voltage for Alternating Current (AC) in the United States?

The standard voltage for Alternating Current (AC) in the United States is 120 volts. This is the nominal voltage supplied to most household outlets and is commonly used for powering everyday appliances and devices. This standard ensures compatibility with a wide range of electrical devices found in homes and businesses, allowing for safe and efficient operation.

In the context of household and light commercial electrical systems, a nominal voltage of 120 volts is used to provide adequate power to lighting fixtures, small appliances, and consumer electronics. This standard is well-suited for residential applications due to its balance between safety, efficiency, and the electrical load requirements of typical devices.

The other voltage options listed are not standard for residential AC power in the U.S. For instance, 230 volts is used in many other countries around the world for similar applications, but it's not the standard in the U.S. Volts such as 12 volts and 5 volts are mainly seen in low-voltage applications, such as in battery-operated devices or electronic circuits, rather than in standard AC power distribution.