direct current
Definition
- Noun:
- A steady, unidirectional flow of electric charge: Direct current is an electric current that flows in a single, constant direction, from the positive terminal to the negative terminal of its source.
Usage
Direct current (often abbreviated as DC) is used to describe a fundamental type of electrical power. It contrasts with alternating current (AC), which periodically reverses direction. - As a subject: Direct current is commonly supplied by batteries. - As an object: This device requires direct current to operate. - With modifiers: Low-voltage direct current is used in many electronic circuits.
Examples
Advanced Usage
- "Pure direct current": Refers to a current with no fluctuations or ripple in its magnitude.
- Laboratory instruments often require a pure direct current for accurate measurements.
- "Pulsating direct current": Refers to a current that flows in one direction but varies in magnitude over time.
- The output of a simple rectifier circuit is a pulsating direct current.
Variants and Related Words
- DC (abbreviation): The standard abbreviation for "direct current."
- The label says "Input: 12V DC."
- Direct-current (adjective): Used to describe devices or systems that use or involve DC.
- A direct-current motor is more efficient for this application.
Synonyms
- Steady current: Emphasizes the constant, non-varying nature of the flow.
- Unidirectional current: Emphasizes the single direction of the flow.
Related Phrases
- Direct current circuit: An electrical circuit powered by a DC source.
- Analyzing a direct current circuit involves Ohm's law.
- Direct current component: In a complex signal, the part that represents the average value or zero-frequency component.
- The oscilloscope can measure the direct current component of the signal.
Noun
-
an electric current that flows in one direction steadily
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