AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current) are two different types of electrical currents. In terms of light bulbs, AC bulbs operate differently than DC bulbs due to the way the electrical current flows.
An AC light bulb utilizes the constant change in direction of the AC current to illuminate the bulb. The filament in an AC bulb glows and produces light as the current flows first in one direction, reaches zero, and then flows in the opposite direction. This constant back-and-forth flow of electricity causes the filament in the bulb to heat up and produce light. The frequency of this change is measured in Hertz (Hz), with standard North American AC voltage operating at 60 Hz. AC bulbs often have a longer lifespan than DC bulbs because the constant change in direction of the current causes the filament to wear down more slowly.
In contrast, a DC light bulb operates with a direct current flow that flows in only one direction. The filament in a DC bulb needs a constant stream of electrons to heat up and glow, and this occurs with the continuous flow of the current. DC bulbs require a constant source of power to operate, with voltage levels often varying between 12V to 120V depending on the application.
Overall, the operating principles of AC and DC light bulbs are different due to the way the current flows. AC bulbs utilize the constant change in direction of the current to heat up the filament and produce light, while DC bulbs require a constant flow of electrons to heat up the filament and generate light. Understanding the operating principles of each type of bulb is important when considering which one to use for a particular application.
