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What is the difference between Direct Current and Alternating Current?

What is the difference between Direct Current and Alternating Current?

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Asked by B. Wright, Last updated: Dec 20, 2024

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G. Horace

G. Horace

G. Horace
G. Horace, Content Developer, Chicago

Answered Apr 22, 2020

Direct current and alternating current are two modes of transferring power from one point to another with the use of conductors. The critical difference between the two is in how the current flows. Direct current flows consistently in one direction at an allotted rate or frequency.

The result of this is the polarity of the voltage. With the DC, the polarity remains steady while with AC, it perpetually switches between positive and negative. With AC, the voltage is expected to reverse continuously, and polarity is not imperative.

It is because DC maintains a constant polarity, you must connect your device as reversing the polarity could damage your device. Battery operated devices indicate how they should be placed. AC is used in electrical mains. AC is easier and more efficient and malleable than DC.

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