AC vs DC Current

An alternating current (AC) is a type of electricity current which works by occasionally reversing direction of movement of current flow. In most households, AC is mainly used. AC is mainly regulated to work between 50-60 hertz.

Direct current (DC) is a type of an electric current whereby electric charges moves in a unidirectional manner. The general direction of movement of current remains the same at all times but the current intensity may vary with change in time.

Differences between Alternating current and Direct current.

Production.

Alternating current can be generated by use of a device known as alternator. A twisted wire is rolled inside a magnetic field which in turn prompts current.

Direct current may be produced by use of alternating current generator. In order to do this, the generator is equipped with a device known as commutator. Other means may be by use of devices like rectifier or use of batteries. Direct current in batteries is generated as a result of chemical reaction in the battery. Direct current on the other hand is generally defined as the one whereby current flows in only one direction.

Applications.

Direct current used in most electronic devices like mobile phones, and tv.

Alternating current on the other hand is mainly used by large electrical appliances like refrigerators.

Pros and cons of ac and dc.

DC

DC reduces the amount of resistance in the line. It has no frequency and therefore DC connections do not require synchronization. It requires only two conductors and it has no inductance which may result from voltage drop in the system.

However, DC has some disadvantages. The major one is that it is not easy to transform its voltage up and down and vice versa.

AC

Alternating current is efficiently transmitted over long distances. Most of the devices actually are plugged with an AC outlet. However, they transform it to DC.

However, AC current is not direct and cannot be used by appliances which require a reliable and consistent power supply.

One of the applications of alternating current involves decreasing/lowering down the voltage for use by electrical appliances and for domestic usage.

Direct current is mainly used by appliances powered by batteries. These devices use inverters to convert AC current into DC since most appliances use direct current due to its stability in current flow.

In conclusion, both AC and DC type of current flow have variety of uses and applications. It all depends with the type of appliance ranging from big machinery to small home devices.