Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a primary advantage of using power over power for large-scale electrical distribution?
48
views
31. Alternating Current
Alternating Voltages and Currents
Struggling with Physics?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
Which device most likely uses only alternating current (AC) during normal operation?
A
A flashlight powered by alkaline cells
B
A typical household ceiling fan plugged into a wall outlet
C
A smartphone powered by its internal battery
D
An automobile starter motor powered by a 12 V battery
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Understand the difference between alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC). AC periodically reverses direction, while DC flows in one constant direction.
Step 2: Identify the power source for each device. A flashlight powered by alkaline cells, a smartphone powered by its internal battery, and an automobile starter motor powered by a 12 V battery all use batteries, which provide direct current (DC).
Step 3: Recognize that a typical household ceiling fan plugged into a wall outlet receives power from the electrical grid, which supplies alternating current (AC).
Step 4: Conclude that the device most likely to use only AC during normal operation is the household ceiling fan, since it is directly connected to an AC power source.
Step 5: Summarize that devices powered by batteries operate on DC, while devices plugged into wall outlets typically operate on AC.
7:49mWatch next
Master Alternating Voltages and Currents with a bite sized video explanation from Patrick
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Alternating Voltages and Currents practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations