Question

Is car power AC or DC?

Answer 1

Cars typically run on **DC (Direct Current)** power, but the power system involves both AC and DC.

Here’s how it works:

1. **DC Power for the Car**: The car’s battery stores and provides **DC power**. This is the primary source of electricity for things like starting the engine, running lights, power windows, and other electrical components.

2. **AC Power for the Alternator**: While the engine is running, the alternator generates **AC power**. But since the car’s electrical system uses DC, the alternator’s AC power is then converted into DC power by a component called the **rectifier**. This DC power recharges the car's battery and powers electrical systems.

So, while the alternator creates AC, the power that runs the car’s systems and is stored in the battery is DC.