The Differences of AC and DC Current
Below is a comparison of Direct Current and Alternating Current.
DC
Advantages of Direct Current:
- Most devices are run off of Direct Current - Direct current is much simpler and easier for devices to run off of as it flows in one direction Disadvantages of Direct Current: - Direct Current can not be transmitted over long distances without power loss due to the fact that electrons have to push through the entire wire - Direct Current systems require more wiring as they require return loops of wire |
AC
Advantages of Alternating Current:
- Alternating Current does not lose as much energy due to the fact that electrons shift back and forth in place - AC can be transported at high voltages and then transformed down to lower voltages for households - Wiring for AC is cheaper as it does not require a return loop of wire like DC Disadvantages of Alternating Current: - Most devices do not run on Alternating Current due to the fact that it does not simply flow in one direction |