What is the difference between AC and DC?
The magnetic field surrounding a DC cable is constant, much like that of the Earth’s own magnetic field. “AC” stands for “Alternating Current,” and “DC” for “Direct Current”. DC current flows steadily in a single direction. AC current continuously switches direction, alternating between going “forwards” and going “backwards”. If this repetition occurs sixty times per second, then the “frequency” of repetition is said to be 60 Hertz (cycles per second). Sixty Hertz is the standard for North American utility companies. DC power, since it does not vary repetitively, is said to have zero frequency. The flow of current in a cable creates a magnetic field around that cable. Since the current in DC systems is constant, and does not vary, the magnetic field around the cable also is constant and unvarying. On the other hand, the changing current in cables carrying AC current creates a varying electromagnetic field (EMF) around the AC cable. This varying EMF in AC cables can induce electrical vo
