[CameronF]

Originally Posted by TheFlyingTurkey

Correct.
An inverter converts D/C to A/C.



The red line above represents D/C, and is converted into A/C which is the full sine wave of the blue line. Remember D/C is direct current, and A/C is alternating current. So when you see a sine wave like the blue line, it is alternating, usually at 60 Hz in the USA. Some countries use 50 Hz.

A simple inverter:


Here the D/C circuit starts where the + symbol is, goes through the transistors, and into the coil. This generates a magnetic field. An iron core separates the D/C coil, from the A/C coil. The A/C coil is energized by the magnetic field and is converted to A/C where it shows output.

It can get pretty complicated when you have 3 phases, and multiple transistors. This is the principle behind variable speed motors, like some home Air conditioning blower motors. You can vary the speed of the motor by changing the frequency of the sine wave. This technology is used in commercial and industrial buildings to control motor speed of pumps and fans, saving money on electricity bills.

Wow thats pretty complex it seems. How much of that is actually required to be explained in an interview?