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

In an alternating current (AC) circuit, the direction of electron flow periodically reverses, whereas in a direct current (DC) circuit, electrons flow in only one continuous direction.

Answer: Answer

Answer

True
The statement is true because the defining characteristic distinguishing AC from DC is the direction of current flow: direct current flows in a single direction with constant polarity, whereas alternating current regularly reverses direction over time.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the fundamental definition of direct current (DC).
Direct current is characterized by electric charges flowing exclusively in a single, constant direction through a circuit.
Direct current power sources, such as chemical batteries, provide a fixed polarity across their terminals.
2
Analyze the fundamental definition of alternating current (AC).
Alternating current periodically cycles between positive and negative polarities, causing charge carriers to oscillate back and forth.
AC generators produce an alternating sinusoidal voltage waveform that regularly inverts direction.
3
Compare the definitions against the provided statement.
The statement accurately reflects the defining behavioral distinction between alternating and direct current.
Both halves of the statement describe standard electrical principles correctly.

Key Concept

Directional characteristics of alternating current (AC) versus direct current (DC)
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Topics

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

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