Difference Between AC & DC
AC |
DC |
---|---|
Current keeps alternating and changes its magnitude and phase. |
Current has a constant value and flows in one direction. |
Frequency of current varies from 50-60 Hz in normal household. |
Frequency of current is zero. |
Direction in which electrons move, keeps on changing periodically |
Direction in which electrons move is constant. |
It is generally used as electricity outlet in industrial ,domestic buildings. |
It is generally used in smaller electronic devices as DC batteries. |
It is used for transfer of electricity over longer distances since it provides more power. |
DC voltage or power can’t be transferred over large distances since it looses power frequently. |
Working Principles of Alternating Current Generator
Do you ever wonder what kind of current flows in the power lines of our household? Is it the same current that is generated in electronic devices with DC battery supply or is it something different? In this article, we will discuss a different current that alternates i.e. varies in magnitude and direction. This type of current is called alternating current.
Alternating current is generally seen flowing in power lines(telephone cables, office lines) and normal household electricity that comes from a wall outlet. It is basically used for industrial, chemical, and domestic power usage where it is transmitted over a long distance. The most common frequency for AC power in many parts of the world is 50 or 60 hertz (Hz), meaning the direction of the current changes 50 or 60 times per second. On the contrary, we have DC current which flows in one direction and doesn’t change polarity.
In this article, we will see all the terminologies related to AC current, the method used for generating AC current, and the difference between AC and DC current. We will also discuss the phasors and the application of AC currents. The later part of this article will talk about AC circuit analysis.