Question

What's the difference between AC and DC?

Answer 1

The difference between **AC (Alternating Current)** and **DC (Direct Current)** comes down to the way the electrical current flows:

1. **DC (Direct Current):**

   * **Flow:** The electric current flows in one direction only.
   * **Source:** DC is typically produced by batteries, solar cells, or DC power supplies.
   * **Example:** A flashlight powered by a battery uses DC.

2. **AC (Alternating Current):**

   * **Flow:** The direction of the electric current alternates, meaning it changes direction periodically.
   * **Source:** AC is used for power transmission over long distances and is produced by generators in power plants.
   * **Example:** The electricity that comes to your home or office is AC.

### Key Differences:

* **Direction of flow:** DC flows in one direction, while AC reverses direction regularly.
* **Usage:** DC is mostly used in small electronics like phones and laptops, whereas AC is used for powering homes, businesses, and large machines.
* **Transmission:** AC is easier to transmit over long distances with less energy loss, which is why it’s used for power grids.

In simple terms, **DC** is like water flowing in a straight pipe, while **AC** is like water flowing back and forth in a pipe.