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What is an Alternating Current (AC)?

In alternating current (AC), the flow of electric charge reverses direction periodically. AC is widely utilized and favored for powering household appliances, offices, and buildings. Its initial experimentation was grounded in Michael Faraday's principles in 1832 through the utilization of a Dynamo Electric Generator.
AC is characterized by a waveform known as a sine wave, depicted as a curved line, representing electric cycles measured per second, denoted in Hertz (Hz). AC finds extensive application in power generation and distribution due to its ease of generation and transmission over long distances. It is proficient in driving electric motors found in appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines.

What is Direct Current (DC)?

In contrast to alternating current, direct current maintains a constant flow in one direction without periodic changes. This steady voltage enables the consistent movement of electricity. Direct current (DC) serves primarily to power electrical devices and recharge batteries, including those found in mobile phones, flashlights, flat-screen televisions, and electric vehicles. DC is typically represented by a combination of positive and negative signs, a dotted line, or a straight line.
Devices relying on batteries, AC adapters for wall sockets, or USB cables for power operation are all dependent on DC. For instance, cellphones, electric vehicles, flashlights, and flat-screen TVs (where AC is initially supplied and then converted into DC) fall under this category.

Difference between AC and DC

The major differences between Alternating Current and Direct Current are given in the table below:
Difference Between AC & DC | Physics for EmSAT Achieve

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FAQs on Difference Between AC & DC - Physics for EmSAT Achieve

1. Why is alternating current (AC) commonly used in households instead of direct current (DC)?
Ans. AC is used in households because it is easier to generate, transmit, and distribute over long distances compared to DC. Additionally, AC can be easily converted to different voltages using transformers, making it more versatile for household applications.
2. Can AC voltage be stored in batteries like DC voltage?
Ans. No, AC voltage cannot be stored in batteries like DC voltage because batteries store energy in a constant voltage form, which is DC. AC voltage constantly changes direction, making it unsuitable for storage in batteries.
3. What are the advantages of AC over DC in terms of power transmission?
Ans. AC is preferred over DC for power transmission because it can be easily converted to different voltages using transformers, reducing energy loss during transmission. AC also allows for the use of grid systems, which are more efficient for long-distance power distribution.
4. Why is AC voltage preferred over DC voltage in most electrical systems?
Ans. AC voltage is preferred over DC voltage in most electrical systems because it is more efficient for power transmission over long distances, easier to convert to different voltages using transformers, and allows for the use of grid systems for distribution.
5. What is wattless current and how does it relate to AC and DC power?
Ans. Wattless current, also known as reactive power, is the flow of electrical energy that does not contribute to useful work in a system. In AC systems, wattless current is needed to maintain voltage levels and balance power factors, while DC systems do not have wattless current.
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