the differences between direct current (d.c.) and alternating current (a.c.) electrical supplies
Direct current and alternating current
You should know the differences between direct current (d.c.) and alternating current (a.c.) electrical supplies.
Direct current
If the current flows in only one direction it is called direct current, or d.c. Batteries and cells supply d.c. electricity, with a typical battery supplying maybe 1.5V. The diagram shows an oscilloscope screen displaying the signal from a d.c. supply.
Alternating current
If the current constantly changes direction, it is called alternating current, or a.c.. Mains electricity is an a.c. supply, with the UK mains supply being about 230V. It has a of frequency 50Hz (50 hertz), which means it changes direction, and back again, 50 times a second. The diagram shows an oscilloscope screen displaying the signal from an a.c. supply.
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