How does direct current (DC) flow in an electrical circuit?

Direct current (DC) flows in one direction, meaning that the electric charge (current) moves steadily from the negative terminal to the positive terminal of a power source, such as a battery. This unidirectional flow is consistent, which differentiates DC from alternating current (AC), where the direction of the charge changes periodically.

In practical terms, devices powered by DC, such as most batteries, solar cells, and certain electronics, rely on this straightforward flow of electrons to function effectively. The characteristics of DC make it suitable for applications that require a stable voltage and current, such as powering circuits and electronic components that utilize semiconductors. It is fundamental to understand this directional flow for troubleshooting and working with electrical systems.