The term "direct current" is spelled with two syllables. The first syllable is pronounced as "dih" with the short "i" sound, and the second syllable is pronounced as "rect" with the long "e" sound. The stress is on the second syllable. The phonetic transcription of this word in IPA is /dɪˈrekt ˈkʌrənt/. Direct current is a type of electric current that flows in only one direction and is commonly used in electronic devices and power systems.
Direct current (DC) refers to the steady flow of electric charge in one direction, typically from a power source such as a battery or a solar cell. It is characterized by consistent voltage level and unidirectional flow, without fluctuation or reversal over time. Direct current is the opposite of alternating current (AC), which periodically changes direction.
Direct current is commonly used in various applications, including electronics, telecommunications, and power transmission. It is an essential form of electrical energy that can be easily stored and utilized efficiently by many devices. Unlike alternative current, direct current does not experience energy losses due to the absence of oscillating cycles.
Direct current is primarily generated by converting other forms of energy, such as chemical, mechanical, or solar, into electrical energy using devices like generators or photovoltaic cells. It is often used in low-voltage and low-power systems, providing a stable and reliable stream of current.
Direct current is denoted by its constant voltage level, such as 12 volts or 24 volts. This makes it ideal for powering small electronic devices like calculators, flashlights, and computers. DC is also used in automotive applications, where it charges the battery and provides power to various components.
In summary, direct current is a form of electrical current that flows consistently in one direction, maintaining a constant voltage level. It has important applications in electronics, telecommunications, and power transmission, offering stability and efficient utilization of electrical energy.
Continuous c. from a galvanic battery.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "direct current" is composed of two separate components: "direct" and "current".
The term "direct" comes from the Latin word "directus", which means "straight" or "directed". In English, "direct" is used to describe something that follows a straight or unbroken path without deviation.
The term "current" comes from the Latin word "currere", which means "to run". In the context of electricity, "current" refers to the flow of electric charge.
Therefore, the combination "direct current" essentially signifies the unidirectional flow of electric charge without any alternating or reversing of the flow.