AC or DC: Which Is Better?

The article "AC or DC: Which Is Better?" explores the fundamental differences between alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) electricity, highlighting why homes use AC despite most modern electronic devices operating on DC. While devices like LEDs and digital gadgets require DC power, the electricity supplied to homes is AC, necessitating internal conversion from AC to DC. This situation stems from a historical debate between Thomas Edison, who championed DC, and Nikola Tesla, who advocated for AC; Tesla’s AC system ultimately became the standard due to its advantages in power transmission. Electricity is described as the flow of electrons driven by voltage, with DC providing a steady, one-directional flow, and AC causing electrons to oscillate back and forth. Although DC circuits are simpler and easier to create—illustrated by the example of a homemade battery using metals and a potato—AC is more practical for transmitting electricity over long distances. The article uses a DC toaster example to explain electrical power, resistance, and Ohm