AC vs DC current Tesla vs Edison

In summary, the conversation discusses the origins of the modern system for transmission of electric energy using alternating current (AC) and the reasons why it is more efficient than a direct current (DC) system. The main difference is that AC can be stepped up to high voltages using transformers, minimizing losses over long distances, while DC cannot be manipulated in the same way due to its steady current nature.
  • #1
shanktank
22
0
hey all, another quick question for ya

The modern system for transmission of electric energy using alternating current (AC) originated with an inventor named Nikola Tesla. An American entrepreneur, George Westinghouse, bought the rights to Tesla's system and managed to convince consumers that the system was much better than a rival DC system devised by Thomas Edison. Explain why a DC system cannot use an efficient stepped up voltage for long distance transmission.



ok so i know AC replaced DC with most generation and power distribution and that the wires are cheaper and thinner, and that AC can be stepped up to high voltages using transformers and then stepped down again... but what's the reason the DC system can't?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
shanktank said:
ok so i know AC replaced DC with most generation and power distribution and that the wires are cheaper and thinner, and that AC can be stepped up to high voltages using transformers and then stepped down again... but what's the reason the DC system can't?
You have just made the financial case for AC. Can you figure out why DC voltage potentials cannot be manipulated like AC?
 
  • #3
because its a direct current? lol
 
  • #4
shanktank said:
because its a direct current? lol
If you have AC, you can run it through the primary coil of a step-up transformer, extract the resulting flow from the overwound secondary coil and feed it to a transmission line that does not have to be particularly beefy. You can reverse this process at the transformer feeding your house and result in a 240-260V excursion in the AC, and then reference that center-tap to ground to give two "legs" at your breaker panel that can give you about 125v excursion around ground. How could you propose do do something similar with a DC system? Can you imagine an affordable system to accomplish this with DC transmission (esp. over long distances!)?
 
  • #5
still not gettin why the dc can't do this?
 
  • #6
coz DC can't be stepped up or down like AC. u step up AC coz at high voltages and low currents, losses are minimized.
can you think of some way of stepping up DC??
a transformer works bcoz of the alternating nature of AC!
 
  • #7
so is dc just a steady current then?
 
  • #8
yes it is, and that is why it is called direct.
alternating current can be altered using transformers and stuff but not DC, I suppose "it is not in its nature...":biggrin:
 

1. What is the difference between AC and DC current?

The main difference between AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current) is the way that the electricity flows. In AC, the direction of the current reverses periodically, while in DC, the direction of the current remains constant. This difference has implications for how the electricity is generated, transmitted, and used.

2. Who invented AC and DC current?

AC current was invented by Nikola Tesla in the late 1800s, while DC current was invented by Thomas Edison in the early 1800s. Both inventors played important roles in the development of electricity and their rivalry has been well-documented.

3. What are the advantages of AC over DC?

AC current has several advantages over DC current. It is easier to generate and transmit over long distances, making it more efficient for powering homes and businesses. AC also allows for the use of transformers to change the voltage, making it more versatile for different types of devices.

4. What are the advantages of DC over AC?

DC current has some advantages over AC current as well. It is better for powering small electronic devices, as it can be easily converted to the low voltages needed. DC also has lower losses when transmitted over short distances, making it more efficient for local power distribution.

5. Which type of current is more commonly used today?

AC current is the most commonly used type of current today. It is the standard for most power grids and is used to power homes, businesses, and industries. However, DC is becoming more popular for certain applications, such as in renewable energy systems and electric vehicles.

Similar threads

Loss of energy in DC and loss reduction in AC circuits
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
B The historical war of currents in Mains Power Distribution: AC vs DC
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
7
Views
889
Resistive heating power AC vs rectified AC/DC
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
10
Views
2K
B Why can you choose only V in DC but V and I in AC?
    • Classical Physics
Replies
10
Views
1K
DC link and rectifier model, Active current as function of voltage?
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
1
Views
1K
Power Loss in Transmission Lines: AC vs DC Comparison Explained with a Model
    • Mechanics
2
Replies
50
Views
9K
AC vs DC: Debunking Myths and Examining Modern Usage
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
1
Views
1K
Electric Trains (in general)
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
11
Views
1K
AC vs DC: Exploring the Effects of Earth's Magnetic Field on Currents
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
4K
AC Power vs. Field Current of a DC Generator: Explained
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
1
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top