What is the difference between alternating current and continuous current?

1 What differences are between continuous current (DC) and alternate (AC)?

Continuous current and alternating current have fundamental differences in the direction of electric flow. While direct current is ideal for portable and electronic consumer devices, alternating current is the preferred choice to feed a variety of devices and systems in the domestic and industrial sphere.

Understanding these differences is key to selecting the most appropriate electricity form according to the specific application, do we see each one?

2 Continuous current (DC)

Continuous current is a constant flow of electric charge in one direction. It is commonly associated with food sources such as batteries and batteries. In this type of current, electrons move from the negative pole to the positive power pole constantly.

As for the transmission of energy, in direct current it is less efficient at long distances due to losses due to resistance in the cables. However, it is preferable in specific applications where a constant and controlled energy transmission is needed, as in some underwater transmission lines.

On energy generation, direct current is used in some forms of renewable energy generation, such as solar panels and fuel batteries. The generated energy is in a continuous current form, and then it can be converted to alternating current for distribution.

DC examples

• Batteries: They are a main source of direct current and are found on portable devices such as mobile phones and watches.
• Solar panels: generate direct current through the conversion of sunlight into electricity.
• Consumer electronics: Many electronic devices, such as radios and flashlights, operate with direct current.

3 Alternating current (AC)

The alternating current, on the other hand, is a periodic flow that invests its direction at regular intervals. It is the predominant electricity form in electrical distribution networks. In the alternating current, electrons range forward and backward, generating a sinusoidal pattern.

The AC is highly efficient for long -distance transmission, since it can be easily transformed to higher or lower voltages by transformers. This reduces energy losses during transmission.

Most energy generation plants, either through conventional sources (coal, gas, nuclear) or renewable (wind, hydroelectric), produce electricity -shaped electricity.

Examples of AC

• Domestic Electricity: Electricity that reaches our homes is mainly alternating current, facilitating efficient energy distribution.
• Appliances: devices such as washing machines, refrigerators and air conditioners work with alternating current.
• Industry: In industrial machinery and electrical transport systems, alternating current is widely used.

4 Alternating current symbols and direct current

In Spain, as in many other places, the symbols used to represent the alternating current and the direct current follow international conventions:

AC: The international symbol for alternating current is a sine (~) wave that represents the periodic variation of the current flow direction. This symbol is used to indicate that the current changes direction to regular intervals.

DC: The symbol for direct current is a continuous and straight line ( -) that indicates a constant flow of current in a single direction. It is important to mention that sometimes the symbol (+) and (-) is also used to represent the positive and negative poles, respectively.

It is essential to become familiar with these symbols, since they are used in electrical diagrams, schemes and labels to indicate the type of current present in an electrical system or device. These symbols help professionals and electricity fans to effectively understand and communicate information about the flow of current in an electrical circuit.