answersLogoWhite

0


Best Answer

Both alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) describe the nature of the current in terms of its direction. DC describes when the flow of electric charge goes in a constant direction whereas AC describes when the flow of electric charge constantly reverses; in other words, the electrodes of the power source constantly switch between positive and negative.

User Avatar

Wiki User

βˆ™ 11y ago
This answer is:
User Avatar
More answers
User Avatar

Wiki User

βˆ™ 12y ago

They are both descriptions of the movement of electrons in a conductor.

The differences between ac and dc currents are more interesting to describe!

For more information please see the answer to the Related Question shown below.

This answer is:
User Avatar

User Avatar

Wiki User

βˆ™ 11y ago

In metal conductors, both d.c. and a.c. current consist of rapid, chaotic, movement of free electrons. In a d.c. current, there is a tendency for individual electrons to move towards one end of the conductor (probably in millimetres per hour). In an a.c. current, there is a tendency for individual electrons to match the direction of the alternating voltage applied to the conductor.

Although, in both cases, the effect of the current is more-or-less instant along the entire conductor, the actual movement of individual electrons in either direction is very, very, slow, in comparison to their chaotic and random motion.

This answer is:
User Avatar

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: What are the similarities and differences between direct current and alternating current?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp
Related questions

What are the similarities differences between soldiers in the Vietnam War current Iraq war?

What the differences between Iraq war and Vietnam war?


What is the differences between the slip and split rings?

Split rings are in AC generators ( alternating current) while slip rings are in DC current (direct current).


What are the differences between AC power and DC power?

The description AC/DC refers to equipment designed to be operate on either alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC). In alternating current the movement of electric charge periodically reverses direction. In direct current , the flow of electric charge is only in one direction.


List five similarities and ten differences between current and past snowboarding technique?

u think im gonna answer tht ? how many b's in batherd


What is alternating current machine?

"What is alternating current machine?"


What is the differences between direct circuit and alternating circuit?

Direct current and Alternating both are diffrent . Alternating current changes it's cycle 50 times in both direction in one second while the direct current doesn't change it's phase or frequecncy because it is free from frequency or frequency less(direct current).


Differentiate between alternating current and direct current In points?

AC and DC can be differentiated but not in points.


What type of electrical current is found in the wires between pylons?

It is alternating current (AC) that is transmitted between electrical pylons.


What is a graphical representation of alternating current?

The symbol for alternating current is: ~


Does vac stand for volt amp current or volt alternating current?

Vac usually stands for voltage alternating current. It represents the voltage of an alternating current electrical system.


Is your house alternating or direct current?

Alternating current. Direct current is used in batteries.


What is the difference when selecting a cable between AC and DC current?

AC. is alternating current and Dc is direct current. alternating equivalant to pulsating electricity while direct is a constant draw with little fluxuation.