Alternating (AC) and Direct Current (DC)

Question 1

What happens to the direction of the current in an alternating current?

Answer 1

The direction of the current is constantly swapping back and forth.

We get these alternating currents whenever we use an alternating potential difference, so one that fluctuates between positive and negative.

Question 2

In the UK, all main supply of electricity is what type of current?

Answer 2

Alternating Current

Question 3

UK main supply is how many hertz and how many volts?

Answer 3

50Hz
240V

This means that the potential difference fluctuates from +240V to -240V and back again 50x per second. The current will also fluctuate at that same rate.

Question 4

What happens to the direction of the current in a direct current?

Answer 4

Direct current is produced by a direct potential difference, which is either positive or negative the entire time. Therefore, the charge is always flowing in the same direction.

Question 5

Where do we find direct current?

Answer 5

We find direct current in things like cells and batteries.

Question 6

How do you get a Potential Difference vs Time graph?

Answer 6

You use devices called oscilloscopes. They display the graphs on a monitor.