AC (alternating current) is commonly used in households for several reasons:
Efficient transmission: AC can be easily converted to different voltages using transformers, allowing for efficient long-distance transmission. This is essential for delivering electricity from power plants to residential areas.
Generation and distribution: Most power plants generate AC electricity. AC generators are simpler and more reliable than DC generators, making them more suitable for large-scale electricity production. Additionally, AC can be easily distributed through power lines without significant power loss.
Voltage control: AC voltage can be easily increased or decreased using transformers, enabling efficient transmission at high voltages and safe usage at lower voltages within homes. This makes it easier to adapt the voltage to different devices and appliances.
Motor operation: AC motors are widely used in household appliances and equipment such as refrigerators, washing machines, and air conditioners. AC motors are simpler, more durable, and less expensive than their DC counterparts.
Safety: AC has a unique safety advantage called the "skin effect." In the event of an electric shock, AC tends to cause muscle contractions, which may push a person away from the source of the shock, potentially reducing the severity of the injury. DC, on the other hand, can cause sustained muscle contractions, making it more dangerous.
While DC (direct current) has its own applications and advantages, such as in batteries, electronics, and certain specialized equipment, AC is the preferred choice for household power distribution due to its efficiency, ease of generation, voltage control capabilities, motor compatibility, and safety considerations.