Examkin

Question

Difficulty: EasyDirect Current (DC) vs. Alternating Current (AC)

An automotive technician connects a diagnostic scanner to a standard 12-volt car battery. Which statement correctly describes the current supplied by this direct current (DC) power source?

  1. A
    The direction of electron flow periodically reverses at regular intervals.
  2. Electrons flow continuously in only one constant direction through the circuit.Answer
  3. C
    The voltage must continuously oscillate between positive and negative values to deliver power.
  4. D
    Electrons remain stationary while electromotive force alone travels through the conductor.

Answer

Electrons flow continuously in only one constant direction through the circuit.
A battery produces direct current (DC), which is characterized by the continuous flow of electrons in a single, unchanging direction through a closed electrical circuit.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the electrical power source and current type.
A 12-volt vehicle battery is an electrochemical source supplying direct current (DC).
Establishing the power source defines the behavior of current flow in the circuit.
2
Apply the fundamental definition of direct current (DC).
Direct current flows in a single, constant direction from the negative terminal to the positive terminal through the external circuit.
Unlike alternating current, direct current maintains a steady polarity and does not alternate direction.

Key Concept

Direct current (DC) is the unidirectional flow of electric charge, maintaining a constant direction of electron movement over time.
Estimated Time:30s
Rate this question

Topics

Direct Current (DC) vs. Alternating Current (AC)

More questions from this topic