How does voltage work? What is AC and DC voltage?

In this article, we will learn about what is voltage. How does voltage work? The difference between DC voltage and AC voltage.

What is voltage

Voltage is what pushes electrons to move freely in an electrical circuit. Without voltage, the free electrons will move around between the atoms, but they move around the nucleus randomly.

To turn on the light we need to put on the two ends of the bulb a voltage corresponding to its rated voltage. This voltage will cause current to pass through the bulb causing it to glow. The voltage sources can be from the battery or the generator.

What is voltage (Source: Into The Ordinary)

How does voltage work?

Suppose when we put a water tank at the top. Under the influence of gravity, the water tends to flow down below. Pressure creates the flow of water through the pipe.

How does voltage work (Source: Into The Ordinary)

Imagine voltage like the pressure in a water pipe. Similarly, when we apply voltage to a closed circuit, the voltage creates a force that pushes the electrons to move and creates an electric current through the wire.

Difference between DC and AC voltage

+ DC voltage is the potential difference between two terminals of a power source passing through a DC circuit. The magnitude of the potential can change in magnitude but not in direction.

DC voltage is used to start the engine, store energy, and in the ignition system. DC voltage is also used to power much electrical equipment such as phones, cameras, lighting systems, etc.

Direct current

+ AC voltage is a voltage whose direction and magnitude change with time both in magnitude and direction. There are two types of AC voltage: 1-phase AC voltage and 3-phase AC voltage.

Electrical appliances with small capacities as fans, water pumps, ovens, air conditioners, microwave ovens, televisions, and refrigerators often use AC voltage. In industry, AC voltage is used to transmit power, because AC voltage is less lossy than DC voltage.