what is direct current

Direct current (DC) is a type of electric current that flows in one direction, from an area of high electron density to an area of low electron density. It is produced by sources such as batteries, fuel cells, rectifiers, and generators with commutators. Direct current has many uses, from charging batteries to powering electronic systems and motors. It is also used in some railways, especially in urban areas, and for transmitting large amounts of power from remote generation sites or to interconnect alternating current power grids. Direct current is different from alternating current (AC), which changes direction periodically. While AC is used in most homes and businesses, direct current is used in any electronic device with a battery for a power source.