1. In reciprocal succession; succeeding by turns; in alternate order.

2. (Math.)

Defn: By alternation; when, in a proportion, the antecedent term is compared with antecedent, and consequent.

ALTERNATENESS
Al*ter"nate*ness, n.

Defn: The quality of being alternate, or of following by turns.

ALTERNATING CURRENT
Al"ter*nat`ing cur"rent. (Elec.)

Defn: A current which periodically changes or reverses its direction of flow.

ALTERNATION
Al`ter*na"tion, n. Etym: [L. alternatio: cf. F. alternation.]

1. The reciprocal succession of things in time or place; the act of following and being followed by turns; alternate succession, performance, or occurrence; as, the alternation of day and night, cold and heat, summer and winter, hope and fear.

2. (Math.)