Direct current is also referred to as what?

• A. Unidirectional current
• B. AC current
• C. Pulsed current
• D. Oscillating current

Answer: (A)

Direct current flows in a single direction, with its polarity staying constant as it moves through a circuit. Because of that steady, one-way flow, direct current is described as unidirectional current. Alternating current reverses direction periodically, so it isn’t unidirectional. Pulsed current can be DC that’s turned on and off, but when it’s on, the direction remains the same. Oscillating current is another way people describe AC, where the direction and magnitude change over time. So the best label for direct current is unidirectional current.