AC or DC Power?
In the late 1800s, electricity as a public utility was available as direct current, or DC. Famous entrepreneur Thomas A. Edison held many DC patents. He desired to continue profiting from them. But that was later threatened—no overturned—by alternating current (AC) electricity.
The change has an element of justice about it, as Edison played the power game in unfair and cruel fashion. He publicly used AC to electrocute cats, dogs and other animals, such as horses. He wanted people to believe AC was too dangerous. He failed to mention DC was every bit as dangerous. Edison was a man of few scruples.
Alternating or Direct Current Power?
Today, many household appliances employ semiconductor devices. So they utilize direct current. Some household energy systems such as solar panels and wind turbines generate DC power. Could it be one day the world will convert to Edison’s DC power? The references below suggest it is a real possibility. But before you check those out, consider the video below.
Note: You might also enjoy What’s the Difference Between Static Electricity and ‘Regular’ Electricity?
References:
- PBS – The American Experience: AC/DC: What’s the Difference?
- IEEE Smart Grid: Experts Roundup: AC vs. DC Power
