What type of current flows consistently in one direction?

The type of current that flows consistently in one direction is known as direct current (DC). In a direct current system, electrons move steadily from the negative terminal of a power source to the positive terminal, maintaining a constant polarity. This unidirectional flow makes DC suitable for applications where stable voltage and current are necessary, such as in battery-powered devices, electronic circuits, and many renewable energy systems.

In contrast, alternating current (AC) changes its direction periodically, reversing its flow at regular intervals. This characteristic makes AC ideal for powering homes and industries, as it can be easily transformed to different voltage levels for efficient transmission over long distances.

Intermittent current refers to a supply that is not continuous and can occur in various forms, such as pulsating DC, where current fluctuates rather than maintaining a steady flow. Variable current implies changes in the current's amplitude and/or direction as needed for a specific application, which is not constant in nature.

Understanding the differences between these types of currents is crucial in electrical theory and applications, especially when selecting systems for particular purposes in electrical engineering.