Alternating/potential diff

• What is a direct potential difference?

  A potential difference that remains in one direction and causes a current in that direction
• What is direct current (DC)?

  A current where charge carriers always flow in the same direction around a circuit
• What is the abbreviation for direct current?

  DC
• How do electrons behave in a direct current?

  All of the electrons travel in the same direction
• What is an alternating potential difference?

  A potential difference that switches direction, causing the current to switch direction
• What is the abbreviation for alternating current?

  AC
• How is alternating current (AC) defined?

  A current where charge periodically changes the direction in which it flows around a circuit
• How do charge carriers behave in an alternating current?

  They are pushed back and forth against each other and through the components
• What type of power sources provide direct potential differences?

  Power sources such as cells or batteries
• What are some examples of direct current (DC) sources?

  Cells and batteries
• What is the role of an AC generator?

  It converts kinetic energy into electrical energy
• What is the most common source of alternating current?

  AC generators
• Where are AC generators used?

  In the national grid
• Who needs to know the details of how an AC generator works for the exam?

  Only higher single science students
• What are the key differences between direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC)?

  • DC: Current flows in one direction; provided by cells and batteries.
  • AC: Current switches direction periodically; provided by AC generators.
• How can you identify a direct current source in a circuit?

  • Look for a power source with positive and negative terminals.
  • Check if the current flows consistently in one direction.
• How can you identify an alternating current source in a circuit?

  • Look for a power source that does not have fixed positive and negative terminals.
  • Observe if the current changes direction periodically.