What is the difference between AC and DC?
1 Answer
AC (Alternating Current) and DC (Direct Current) are two different types of electrical currents. The main difference lies in the direction and flow of electrons in each type:
Alternating Current (AC):
In AC, the flow of electric charge periodically reverses direction. It means the electrons oscillate back and forth, changing their polarity and direction of flow.
AC is typically used for transmitting electricity over long distances, as it can be easily transformed to different voltage levels using transformers.
The most common frequency of AC used in power systems around the world is 50 or 60 Hertz (Hz), meaning the direction of the current reverses 50 or 60 times per second.
Household power outlets in many countries provide AC power.
Direct Current (DC):
In DC, the electric charge flows in one direction only, from the positive terminal to the negative terminal.
DC is commonly used in batteries and electronic devices because many electronic components require a constant voltage level, which can be provided by DC.
Unlike AC, DC does not change direction or polarity over time.
Some electronic devices, such as computers and smartphones, have internal power supplies that convert AC to DC to power the device's components.
In summary, the key difference between AC and DC is the direction of electron flow: AC alternates its direction periodically, while DC flows in one constant direction. The choice of using AC or DC depends on the specific application and the requirements of the electrical devices being used.
Alternating Current (AC):
In AC, the flow of electric charge periodically reverses direction. It means the electrons oscillate back and forth, changing their polarity and direction of flow.
AC is typically used for transmitting electricity over long distances, as it can be easily transformed to different voltage levels using transformers.
The most common frequency of AC used in power systems around the world is 50 or 60 Hertz (Hz), meaning the direction of the current reverses 50 or 60 times per second.
Household power outlets in many countries provide AC power.
Direct Current (DC):
In DC, the electric charge flows in one direction only, from the positive terminal to the negative terminal.
DC is commonly used in batteries and electronic devices because many electronic components require a constant voltage level, which can be provided by DC.
Unlike AC, DC does not change direction or polarity over time.
Some electronic devices, such as computers and smartphones, have internal power supplies that convert AC to DC to power the device's components.
In summary, the key difference between AC and DC is the direction of electron flow: AC alternates its direction periodically, while DC flows in one constant direction. The choice of using AC or DC depends on the specific application and the requirements of the electrical devices being used.