Batteries store DC (Direct Current), not AC (Alternating Current).
Here's a breakdown explaining why:
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What batteries actually do: According to the provided reference, batteries don't store electrical energy directly. Instead, they use electrical energy to initiate chemical reactions that store chemical energy. When the battery is connected to a circuit, these chemical reactions reverse, releasing electrical energy.
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DC vs. AC:
- DC (Direct Current): Electrical current that flows in one direction only. Think of a steady stream. This is what batteries produce.
- AC (Alternating Current): Electrical current that periodically reverses direction. This is what you get from wall outlets in your home.
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Why batteries use and output DC: The chemical reactions within a battery that generate electricity are inherently unidirectional. They are designed to push electrons in a single direction, creating a direct current flow.
| Feature | DC (Direct Current) | AC (Alternating Current) |
|---|---|---|
| Direction of Flow | One direction only | Periodically reverses direction |
| Source | Batteries, solar cells | Wall outlets, generators |
| Voltage | Usually constant | Varies sinusoidally |
In summary, batteries utilize and provide DC electrical energy because of the underlying chemical processes involved in energy storage and release.
