GCSE Additional Science

Topic: AC/DC
Activity: Lesson 10

Objectives
Cells and batteries supply current that always passes in the same direction. This is called direct current
(d.c.).
An alternating current (a.c.) is one that is constantly changing direction.
Mains electricity is an a.c. supply. In the UK it has a frequency of 50 cycles per second (50 hertz) and is
about 230 V.
Candidates should be able to compare and calculate potential differences of d.c. supplies and the peak
potential differences of a.c. supplies from diagrams of oscilloscope traces.
Higher Tier candidates should be able to determine the period and hence the frequency of a supply
from diagrams of oscilloscope traces.
Outcomes:
 Distinguish between alternating and direct current-D
 State the frequency and potential differecne of UK mains electricity-C
 Describe how the potential of the live wires varies with each cycle-B
 Use oscilloscope traces to compare direct and alternating potential differences and measure the
peak voltage of an ac source-A
 Measure the period and frequency of an ac source using an oscilloscope or diagrams of
oscilloscope traces- A/A*
Timings: Suggested Activities (including specific refs to HSW):
Starter

5 Pupils to complete in pairs the card sort game on symbols and terms given so far.
(Answer in Folder)

Share Obj

Main

5 Slide 3: What are the similarities and differences between mains and battery
power. Pupils write some ideas in their book.

5 Slide 4: Explain DC - If the current flows in only one direction it is called direct
current (DC). Batteries and cells supply DC electricity, with a typical battery
supplying around 1.5 V. The diagram shows an oscilloscope screen displaying the
signal from a DC supply.

5 Slide 5: P1 Recap – Properties of a wave- Discuss- Pupils should recognize the

sine wave shape and perhaps the wavelength (or period) and amplitude.

Demo:
25 Using a power pack discuss why the d.c. outputs are colour coded for
positive and negative, and why a.c. are not. Show that a light bulb will light
up for both.
Explain that d.c. is current flowing around a complete circuit whereas a.c.
is oscillating back and forth. Use an oscilloscope and signal generator to
show what alternating current is. Give pupils laminated templates to add
 wave and information to explaining a.c. current.
 Pupils draw a diagram for mains electricity, using template, and explaining
why they have drawn it as they have.

 Show annotated diagram together on board, noting that the frequency is

how many cycles it passes through each second (flowing one way and
then the other) and that frequency in mains electricity is 50 cycles per
second (50 Hertz). Play pupils a signal generator at 50Hz and discuss
how this is like a buzz heard by fluorescent lamps – because mains
electricity is at 50Hz.
 Discuss why a.c. is used for mains electricity, reminding them about the
need for transformers in mains electricity. Note again that in mains
electricity the voltage is at 230V.

For Higher students – AC Problems

10 (Answers also in folder)

Worked Example on PowerPoint before attempting problems

Plenary

5  Pupils to discuss whether d.c. or a.c. is used for the following devices,
giving reasons:

1. personal stereo (DC)

2. bedside lamp (AC)
3. clock radio (AC)
4. wall clock (DC)
5. television remote control (DC)
microwave (AC)

Or
 • Copy the diagrams of Ac and DC
• Describe what happens in AC and DC circuits in a few sentences,
referring to electron flow

Apparatus / Materials Required: Safety:

 Symbols and Terms Card Sort
 Template laminates
 Cathode ray oscilloscope, low voltage ac source, battery
and leads (set up if possible)

Differentiation
Higher ability need to be able to measure peak voltage, period and frequency of an alternating source.
 Lower ability just need to be familiar with oscilloscope diagram, including the labeling.
 Extend: Ask “Why is our mains electricity 50Hz?” “What is the physical reason for this and is it the
same in all countries?” “How was the frequency and voltage decided on and why?”
(Speed of rotation of generator)

Homework ideas:
