How does a DC current polarize

  • Context: Undergrad 
  • Thread starter Thread starter jsmith613
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Current Dc Dc current
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

Direct current (DC) polarizes materials by maintaining a consistent polarity, allowing the atoms within the material to align and develop magnetic properties. In contrast, alternating current (AC) continuously switches polarity, which disrupts the alignment process necessary for magnetization. This fundamental difference explains why DC is essential for effectively polarizing magnetic-capable materials.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic electromagnetism principles
  • Familiarity with direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) concepts
  • Knowledge of magnetic materials and their properties
  • Basic comprehension of atomic structure and alignment
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of electromagnetism and magnetic fields
  • Explore the differences between DC and AC currents in depth
  • Study the properties of ferromagnetic materials and their behavior under different currents
  • Learn about applications of DC in electromagnetism, such as in electric motors and magnetic storage
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, electrical engineers, and anyone interested in the principles of magnetism and electrical currents.

jsmith613
Messages
609
Reaction score
0
from my understanding polarization is a way of causing objects to be diametrically opposed (North and South poles for example)

What I don't understand is how a DC current polarizes a metal. Obviously for something to be magnetic it MUST be polarized but why does a DC current have to be used, why can't it be an AC current?

Thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
An AC current when coiled around a magnetic capable material continually switches poles with each repeating cycle. This disrupts the magnetizing process. A DC current keeps the same polarity so that the material can align its atoms and so take on the magnetic property.
 

Similar threads

High School Why is there induced current in a DC motor?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Undergrad What causes skin effect in AC currents?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
High School Why does my LC circuit not oscillate its energy between Electric & Magnetic fields?
  • · Replies 152 ·
6
Replies
152
Views
7K
High School The historical war of currents in Mains Power Distribution: AC vs DC
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
High School Can a DC motor be made with one magnet?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
Undergrad How induction works within a coil (nuances of it)
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Undergrad Why does metal moving though a magnetic field slow down?
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
4K
Undergrad Understanding the Rise of Current in DC RL Circuits
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Undergrad Energetic argument for the tension in a current loop
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
1K
Graduate Understanding Propagation of DC Current Along a Conductor
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K