Essay
Essay Unit 15 - Electrical Circuits and their Application
- Course
- Institution
explains the differences and similarities of the properties of AC and DC current in simple circuits , has diagrams and is all in detail
[Show more]
Seller
Follow
zshahid572005
Content preview
Electrical safety awarenessThe differences and similarities of AC and DC current in simple circuits
AC (Alternating Current) and DC (Direct Current) are two different types
of electrical current used in circuits. Here are the main differences and
similarities between the properties of AC and DC current in simple
circuits: Direction of Current Flow:
DC: In a DC circuit, the electric current flows in one direction only,
from the positive terminal to the negative terminal of the power
source (e.g., battery or DC power supply).
AC: In an AC circuit, the electric current alternates its direction
periodically. It continuously changes its polarity, moving back and
forth, reversing its direction at regular intervals (usually
represented as a sine wave).
Polarity and Magnitude:
DC: Assuming a constant voltage source, the magnitude (strength) of
the current in a DC circuit remains constant throughout time. The
polarity of the current remains constant, and it flows in only one
direction.
In an alternating current circuit, the magnitude and polarity of the
current vary continually as the current alternates its direction. It
changes continuously throughout time.
Power Transmission:
DC: DC current is primarily used for short-distance power
transmission and in electronic devices where a constant and
stable voltage is required, such as computers, cell phones, and
electronic circuits.
AC: AC current is used for long-distance power transmission, as it
can be easily stepped up or down in voltage using transformers.
, AC is the standard form of electricity supplied to homes,
businesses, and industries.
Energy Loss and Efficiency:
DC: DC circuits generally have lower energy losses because the
current flows in a single direction without changing direction
periodically. This makes DC circuits more efficient for certain
applications.
AC: AC circuits, especially during transmission, can have higher
energy losses due to factors like resistance, inductance, and
capacitance. However, AC can be easily transformed and
controlled using transformers and is more suitable for long-
distance power transmission.
Circuit Components:
DC: DC circuits often use components like batteries, capacitors,
and diodes. These components are designed to work with a
constant voltage and unidirectional flow of current.
AC: AC circuits use components like transformers, inductors, and
capacitors that can handle the continuously changing voltage and
current direction in an AC system.
Safety Concerns:
DC: DC circuits are generally considered safer than AC circuits at
lower voltages because the steady flow of current minimizes the
risk of electrical shock.
AC: AC circuits, especially at higher voltages, can be more
dangerous due to the periodic reversal of current, which can
cause more severe muscle contractions and interfere with the
normal functioning of the heart.
In summary, DC current flows in one direction, maintains a constant
magnitude and polarity, and is commonly used in electronic devices. AC
current alternates its direction, varies in magnitude and polarity, is
The benefits of buying summaries with Stuvia:
Guaranteed quality through customer reviews
Stuvia customers have reviewed more than 700,000 summaries. This how you know that you are buying the best documents.
Quick and easy check-out
You can quickly pay through credit card or Stuvia-credit for the summaries. There is no membership needed.
Focus on what matters
Your fellow students write the study notes themselves, which is why the documents are always reliable and up-to-date. This ensures you quickly get to the core!
Frequently asked questions
What do I get when I buy this document?
You get a PDF, available immediately after your purchase. The purchased document is accessible anytime, anywhere and indefinitely through your profile.
Satisfaction guarantee: how does it work?
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures that you always find a study document that suits you well. You fill out a form, and our customer service team takes care of the rest.
Who am I buying these notes from?
Stuvia is a marketplace, so you are not buying this document from us, but from seller zshahid572005. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy these notes for $29.24. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.
Can Stuvia be trusted?
4.6 stars on Google & Trustpilot (+1000 reviews)
82871 documents were sold in the last 30 days
Founded in 2010, the go-to place to buy study notes for 14 years now