Direct current
Direct Current
Direct current (DC) is the unidirectional flow or movement of electric charge carriers (usually electrons). The intensity of the current can vary with time, but the general direction of movement stays the same at all times. As opposed to alternating current (AC), the direction of direct current is always constant.
Pronunciation: /dɪˈrɛkt ˈkʌrənt/
Etymology: The term "direct current" comes from the fact that the electric charge flows in one singular, direct direction.
History
Direct current was first discovered by Alessandro Volta in 1800. Volta invented the voltaic pile, the first electrical battery, which produced a reliable, steady current of electricity. This discovery led to the widespread use of direct current in the early days of electricity.
Applications
Direct current is commonly found in many low-voltage applications, especially where these are powered by batteries, which produce DC. Most electronic circuits require a DC power supply. Direct current is also used in situations where a constant power supply is required, such as charging batteries, fuel cells, and power supply units for electronic systems.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Direct current
- Wikipedia's article - Direct current
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