jævnstrømskredsløb

A jævnstrømskredsløb, or direct current (DC) circuit, is an electrical circuit where the electric current flows in only one direction. This is in contrast to an alternating current (AC) circuit where the current periodically reverses direction. In a DC circuit, the electrical charge carriers, typically electrons, move consistently from a region of lower potential to a region of higher potential, or more conventionally, from the positive terminal to the negative terminal of a power source.

The fundamental components of a simple DC circuit include a power source, such as a battery or a DC power supply, which provides the voltage difference to drive the current. Conductors, usually wires, connect the components and allow the current to flow. Loads, such as resistors, light bulbs, or motors, consume electrical energy within the circuit. The flow of current in a DC circuit is governed by Ohm's Law, which states that the current (I) is equal to the voltage (V) divided by the resistance (R): I = V/R.

DC circuits are prevalent in many applications. Batteries, which are common power sources for portable electronic devices like smartphones, laptops, and remote controls, provide direct current. Many electronic components, including transistors and integrated circuits, operate on DC power. Historically, direct current was the primary method of electrical distribution before the widespread adoption of alternating current systems. However, DC power remains crucial for specific applications, such as in electric vehicles and for certain industrial processes. The direction of current flow is constant, making the analysis and behavior of DC circuits generally simpler than AC circuits.