true or false? cells and batteries supply current that always passes in the same direction.
True or False? Do cells and batteries supply current that always passes in the same direction?
Answer: The answer to this question is True for most traditional cells and batteries, but there are nuances that are important to understand.
Direct Current (DC) vs. Alternating Current (AC)
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Direct Current (DC): Most batteries and cells, such as the ones you find in flashlights, cameras, and smartphones, supply direct current (DC). This means that the current flows in one direction only. The flow of charge in a DC circuit moves from the negative terminal to the positive terminal.
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Alternating Current (AC): In contrast, alternating current (AC) is used for power supply in homes and businesses, where the flow of current changes direction periodically. This type of current is not supplied by standard batteries.
How Standard Cells/Batteries Work:
- Chemical Reactions: In most cells or batteries, chemical reactions occur within the battery that release electrons and generate an electric current. These reactions are designed to deliver DC because the movement of electrons goes from one material (the anode) to another (the cathode) in the battery.
Types of Cells/Batteries:
- Primary Cells: These are non-rechargeable batteries (e.g., alkaline batteries). They provide a steady flow of DC until they run out of chemicals to sustain the reaction.
- Secondary Cells: These are rechargeable batteries (e.g., lithium-ion batteries). While they supply DC, they can be recharged by applying a current in the opposite direction, which reverses the chemical reaction.
Special Cases:
- Inverter Batteries: If a battery is used in conjunction with an inverter, it can power AC devices, but the inverter is necessary to convert DC to AC.
Conclusion
For traditional and most everyday use cells and batteries, it is correct to say they supply current that always passes in the same direction, qualifying as direct current (DC). This makes the statement true for these resources. Complex systems or specific applications, such as those requiring alternating current or the recharging of batteries, involve additional equipment to alter the direction of the current.