Why alternating current is used

AC is most commonly found in mains-wired buildings such as homes and offices. This is because generating and transporting an AC current across long distances is relatively easy. At high voltages of over kV, less energy is lost in power transmission. At higher voltages, lower currents are produced, and lower currents generate less heat in the power line due to a lower level of resistance.

This therefore means less energy lost as heat. AC currents can be converted to and from high voltages with ease by using transformers. Alternating currents can be converted to and from high voltages with ease by using transformers. Source: Science ABC. AC is also great for use in electric motors because motors and generators are the same device.

The only difference between a generator and a motor is that a motor converts electrical energy into mechanical energy. These motors are used in all kinds of appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers. This is not nearly as easy or cheap to do with DC. Why is alternating current used in homes? Aug 7, Explanation: Alternating current is used in most electricity distribution systems for several reasons, but the most important one is the ease with which it can be transformed from one voltage to another.

All "room temperature" conductors have resistance, so they heat up when carrying current. Other reasons are: DC is more lethal than AC for the same voltage because it's harder to let go of if touched as the voltage does not go through zero. Muscles contract with constant force with DC.

Electrolytic corrosion is more problematic with DC. Such a problem could well exist with water pipes! However, as already noted air is an excellent insulator and even voltages of , volts and more can be transmitted along power lines hanging in the open. Only the insulators which hold those wires need to resist a higher voltage--e.

It is also true that the voltage must be " stepped down " back to volts before entering the home: wires hanging high above the ground may hold back very high voltages, but wires in homes and factories are wrapped in thin plastic and inside one's walls, safe at volts but not voltages many times larger. Still, it remains an attractive idea. Can it be done?

Not with DC. However, it turns out that AC allows such exchanges--raise the voltage, lower the current--by means of devices known as electric transformers. However, there is a limit at which it is no longer advantageous to use alternating current over direct current see HVDC transmission. Most devices large factory dynamos for example that are directly connected to the electrical grid operate on alternating current, and electrical outlets in homes and commercial areas supply alternating current as well.

Devices that require direct current, like laptops, usually have an AC adapter that converts alternating current to direct current. Alternating current is the current of choice globally as it has many clear advantages compared to direct current. For a full breakdown of differences between the two, see AC vs DC. Some advantages include: [6]. The University of Colorado has graciously allowed us to use the following Phet simulation that explores how alternating current works.

Fossil Fuels. Nuclear Fuels.