Gleichstromströme

Gleichstromströme, commonly referred to as direct current (DC), describes the unidirectional flow of electric charge. In a DC circuit, the electric potential, or voltage, is constant over time, causing electrons to move consistently from the negative terminal to the positive terminal of the power source. This contrasts with alternating current (AC), where the direction of charge flow reverses periodically.

The fundamental principle behind DC is the existence of a voltage difference. Batteries and solar cells are common sources of direct current. In a battery, chemical reactions produce the voltage that drives the current. Solar cells convert light energy directly into electrical energy, also producing DC.

Early electrical systems predominantly used DC, pioneered by inventors like Thomas Edison. However, AC systems, championed by Nikola Tesla and George Westinghouse, eventually became more prevalent for long-distance power transmission due to AC's ability to be easily transformed to higher voltages, which reduces energy loss.

Despite the widespread use of AC for power grids, DC remains crucial in many applications. Electronic devices, from smartphones to computers, rely on DC power, often supplied by internal batteries or converted from AC mains power via power adapters. Electric vehicles also utilize DC motors and batteries. Furthermore, specialized DC applications include electroplating, welding, and certain types of industrial motors. The ability to store electrical energy in batteries makes DC indispensable for portable electronics and backup power systems.