Alternating Current vs Direct Current - Physics Forums
Apr 14, 2008 · FAQ: Alternating Current vs Direct Current What is the difference between Alternating Current and Direct Current? Alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) are two different ways in which electricity can flow. AC is a type of electricity that changes direction periodically, while DC is a type of electricity that only flows in one direction.
Varying Direct Current and Alternating current - Physics Forums
Jul 23, 2015 · In summary, Varying Direct Current (DC) and Alternating Current (AC) differ in their sign and magnitude. AC has a repeating pattern and an average of zero, while DC has a constant sign and a non-zero average. On a Current-Time graph, AC would show a changing sign while DC would show a constant sign.
Alternating current and Direct current? - Physics Forums
Jun 8, 2012 · FAQ: Alternating current and Direct current? What is the difference between alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC)? AC is a type of electric current where the direction of flow of electrons alternates back and forth, while DC is a type of electric current where the direction of flow of electrons is constant.
Alternating Current, live and neutral wires - Physics Forums
Nov 5, 2016 · Alternating current (AC) is a type of electric current that reverses direction periodically, while direct current (DC) flows in only one direction. In AC, the current changes direction at a certain frequency, typically 50 or 60 times per second, while in DC, the current flows in a constant direction.
SI Notation for Direct Current and Voltage Direct Current - Physics …
Dec 2, 2010 · Abbreviation of alternating current in text: dc (lower case) BTW, the terms "direct current" and "alternating current" do not refer to the intensity in amperes, but to the fact that the current does not change direction (dc) or does change direction (ac). Hence, it is fine to say "volts direct current" or "volts alternating current".
Why Is Alternating Current Preferred for Long-Distance Power …
Sep 23, 2012 · A.C and D.C (direct current) power transmission have different strengths and weaknesses. A.C is better suited for long distance transmission due to its ability to easily change voltage levels, while D.C is better for shorter distances and for use in electronic devices.
Understanding the Relationship Between Electric Current and …
Apr 19, 2006 · The two main types of electricity are direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC). DC flows in one direction, while AC alternates in direction at a specific frequency. Other types include static electricity, which is stationary, and magnetic electricity, which is produced by magnets. What are radio waves?
Why DC is said to be more dangerous than AC? - Physics Forums
Dec 28, 2011 · However, any practical distribution system will use voltage levels quite sufficient for a dangerous amount of current to flow, whether it uses alternating or direct current. As precautions against electrocution are similar for both AC and DC, the technical and economic advantages of AC power transmission outweighed this theoretical risk, and it ...
Alternating current versus direct current - Physics Forums
Apr 14, 2008 · Alternating current (AC) is a type of electrical current that changes direction periodically, while direct current (DC) flows in only one direction. AC is commonly used in household and industrial electrical systems, while DC is used in smaller electronic devices, such as batteries. 2. How does alternating current differ from direct current in ...
What Exactly is Alternating Current - Physics Forums
Jan 3, 2013 · I understand direct current perfectly fine as it is just the continuous flow of electrons, but what is alternating current. I have heard it explained as the continuous switching of a currents direction 50 or 60 times a second, but that is so vague …