Electric current flows in a single direction or changes direction frequently. There are two forms of current flow, Alternating current(AC) and direct current(DC). The main difference between AC and DC current is the constant supply of power. DC current is only moving in one direction, whereas AC current frequently reverses direction. In this blog post, we will discuss the difference between AC and DC current to better understand this topic.
Difference between AC and DC current
Move/Path
In AC current, the current moves in both directions, But in DC current the current moves only in one direction.
Load type
AC(Alternating current) is resistive, inductive, or capacitive, and DC(Direct current) load is generally resistive in nature.
Types
AC current is a type of sinusoidal type, in another type can be triangular or square, trapezoidal. But in DC current is of pure and plastic form.
Frequency
In AC current the frequency range is in between 50-60 Hz, While in frequency range of DC current is always zero.
Direction
The direction of the current flow in AC current is bidirectional, but the direction of flow of DC current is unidirectional.
Power factor
The power factor in AC current is between 0 and 1, whereas the power factor of DC current is always 1.
Purpose
AC current is used in factories, industries, and households, DC current is also used in electrolysis, electroplating, electronic appliances, etc.
Polarity
AC current is polarity(+ or -), and DC current does not have polarity.
Source
The source of AC current is an AC generator, But the source of DC current is batteries, electromechanical cells, and photovoltaic cells.
Loss of energy
As compared to DC, the loss of energy during the transmission in AC voltage is low, But in DC involves a high loss of energy and is hence not preferred when transformers are at a distance.
Current
In AC current the current of magnitude varies with time. On the other hand DC current, is the current of constant magnitude.
Transmission
In AC current we can transmit it over long distances with a few losses, on the other hand, in DC current we can transmit it over long distances with negligible losses.
Magnetism
AC current has a rotating magnetism, and DC current has a steady magnetism.
Flow of Electron
The electron flow goes from forward to backward and vice versa, but the electron flow in DC current goes only forward.
Application
AC current is mainly used in electric motors present in electric appliances, and DC current is used in mobile phones, television sets, etc.
Thank you for reading this article. Still, if you have any questions or queries in mind on the Difference between AC and DC current then please ask us in the comment section below.
Explore more information: