Direct Current

define direct current:

A direct current (d.c.) is defined as a current that is steady, constantly flowing in the same direction in a circuit, from positive to negative

describe the potential difference across a cell in a d.c circuit?

The potential difference across a cell in a d.c. circuit is in one direction only

what is a characteristic of a d.c. power supply?

A d.c. power supply has a fixed positive terminal and a fixed negative terminal

What electrical components produce d.c. current

Electric cells, or batteries, produce direct current (d.c.)

what kind of circuits use a d.c supply?

Circuits powered by cells or batteries use a d.c. supply

what does a series circuit consist of?

A series circuit consists of a string of components connected in a loop between the ends of the power supply

describe the current in a series circuit?

The current is the same at all points

describe the potential difference in a series circuit?

The potential difference of the power supply is shared between the individual components

what are two disadvantages of series circuits?

• If one of the components breaks, all of the others will stop working

• The components cannot be controlled (switched on and off) separately