What defines direct current (DC)?

Direct current (DC) is specifically characterized by the flow of electric charge in a single, constant direction. This unidirectional flow makes DC distinguishable from other types of electrical currents, such as alternating current (AC), where the direction of flow periodically reverses. In practical applications, DC is commonly used in battery-operated devices, electronic circuits, and various other applications where stable voltage is crucial. The consistency of flow in one direction allows for more reliable operation in many electronic components and systems, highlighting why this definition is significant in the context of electrical principles.