10 Questions
What is the characteristic of electric charge flow in Alternating Current (AC)?
It changes its direction periodically
What is the waveform of Alternating Current (AC)?
Sine wave
What is the unit of measurement for electric cycles in Alternating Current (AC)?
Hertz
What is the characteristic of electric charge flow in Direct Current (DC)?
It flows in a single direction
What is the purpose of an AC adapter or a USB cable for power?
To convert AC to DC
What is the main advantage of AC over DC when it comes to transmission?
AC is easier to transfer over longer distances
What causes the change in direction of electric flow in AC?
The rotating magnets
What is the frequency of AC in general?
50 Hz or 60 Hz
What is the characteristic of the flow of current in AC?
It changes its direction forward and backward periodically
What is the characteristic of the flow of electrons in DC?
They only move in one direction – forward
Study Notes
Alternating Current (AC)
- Electric charge flow changes direction periodically
- Most commonly used and preferred electric power for household equipment, offices, and buildings
- First tested in 1832 based on Michael Faraday's principles using a Dynamo Electric Generator
- Identified in a waveform called a sine wave (curved line)
- Electric cycles are measured per second, read as Hertz (Hz)
- Easy to generate and transport over long distances with relatively low energy loss
- Capable of powering electric motors used in refrigerators, washing machines, etc.
Direct Current (DC)
- Electric current flows in a single direction with steady voltage
- Major use is to supply power to electrical devices and charge batteries
- Examples: mobile phone batteries, flashlights, flat-screen TVs, electric vehicles
- Represented by a plus and a minus sign, dotted line, or straight line
- Devices that run on batteries and use AC adapters or USB cables rely on DC
Key Differences between AC and DC
- AC can be transferred over long distances with minimal energy loss, while DC loses power over long distances
- AC has a frequency (50 Hz or 60 Hz), while DC has no frequency or zero frequency
- AC flow changes direction periodically, while DC flow is steady in one direction
- Electrons in AC change direction, while electrons in DC move in one direction
Learn about the basics of Alternating Current, its history, and characteristics. Discover how it works and its applications in everyday life.
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