How is DC voltage characterized?

Direct current (DC) voltage is characterized by constant polarity, meaning that the voltage does not change direction over time. In a DC circuit, the electrical charge flows in a single direction, which results in a steady voltage level. This stability in polarity is crucial for many applications, such as batteries and electronic circuits, where consistent performance is needed.

Understanding this concept is essential because it helps differentiate DC from alternating current (AC), where the polarity continuously reverses. Thus, the constant nature of DC voltage makes it fundamental in applications that require reliable and unchanging electrical signals. This characteristic contributes to its use in powering devices like electronic circuits, where fluctuations in voltage can disrupt functionality.