Electronics/Power supply assignment questions

[Dongorgon]

Homework Statement

Hello all, there are three fairly simple electronics related questions of an assignment to be handed in tomorrow, and whilst the initial answers as obvious, I'd greatly appreciate some assistance on elaborating on certain questions:

1. Explain the reasons for requiring a constant DC voltage for most electronic devices.
2. Explain why batteries are not an adequate solution to DC power requirements.
3. Explain the need for conversion of domestic AC supply to DC.

The Attempt at a Solution

Obviously for 1: The majority of small, electrical appliances, eg phone chargers and children's toys require a small voltage. What I'm querying however, is the fundamental difference between AC and DC and why such devices could not operate on AC?

For 2: Life-span as a main answer, is this a correct starting point? Is there any other general difference considering a battery provides a completely flat DC voltage?

For 3: Well obviously due to safety, and AC is cheaper as a mains source etc. But what would be the consequence of not using AC?

Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated, thanks for reading!

 

[mfb]

Transistors have fixed, different sides - you cannot operate them with AC, or not in the intended way.

2: I think everywhere where batteries are not an adequate solution, lifetime is an issue. If they would have an infinite lifetime, you could use them nearly everywhere.

But what would be the consequence of not using AC?

Hint: the power grid would have a poor performance with DC.

 

[Dongorgon]

Brilliant, thanks for your reply and confirmation!
There's also two more questions I'm slightly apprehensive about, I'm also unsure whether the first refers to a full-wave/half-wave with a capacitor?

Q1: Explain filter circuits to remove ripples.

Q2: Explain the use of stabilising circuits for voltage regulation.

Thanks again

 

[NascentOxygen]

I'm also unsure whether the first refers to a full-wave/half-wave with a capacitor?

Q1: Explain filter circuits to remove ripples.

This is applicable to both full-wave and half-wave, and addresses ripple on the DC at the output. Though I think you could confine your discussion to full-wave, since one of the measures to reduce ripple on a half-wave is to convert it into a full-wave!

Q2: Explain the use of stabilising circuits for voltage regulation.

Stabilize against changing conditions that would tend to cause the DC output voltage to vary.

 

[Nickie]

1. Most electronic devices require a constant DC voltage because they are designed to operate on a specific voltage level. AC voltage fluctuates between positive and negative values, which would cause the device to malfunction or potentially damage it. DC voltage provides a steady flow of electricity in one direction, ensuring the device receives the necessary and consistent power supply.

2. Batteries may not be an adequate solution for DC power requirements because they have a limited lifespan and need to be replaced or recharged frequently. They also have a limited capacity, meaning they can only provide a certain amount of power before needing to be replaced or recharged. Additionally, batteries may not provide a consistent voltage output, as their voltage can decrease over time.

3. The need for conversion of domestic AC supply to DC is primarily due to the fact that most electronic devices are designed to operate on DC voltage. As mentioned before, AC voltage fluctuates, which could damage or malfunction electronic devices. Converting AC to DC ensures a constant and stable power supply for these devices. Additionally, AC is not suitable for charging batteries, which are often used to power electronic devices.