War of the Currents: AC vs DC

The War of Currents was a pivotal conflict between Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla over the use of direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) for electricity distribution. Edison developed a DC system but faced limitations in voltage conversion. Tesla's AC system, using transformers, allowed for efficient long-distance transmission. The Chicago World's Fair in 1893 marked a turning point, with Tesla's AC system proving more cost-effective. AC became the dominant method for over a century. However, modern technology has revived interest in DC for high-power transmission, suggesting the conflict may continue.

What was the main limitation of Edison's DC electricity in the late 1880s?

• It was not compatible with existing devices.

• It was too expensive to produce.

• It could not be converted to different voltages.

• It was not safe for home use.

How did Tesla's use of transformers give him an advantage in the War of the Currents?

• They made electricity safer for consumers.

• They enabled long-distance transmission with low losses.

• They allowed for cheaper electricity production.

• They reduced the cost of electrical devices.

What strategy did Edison use to combat the rising popularity of AC?

• He launched a misinformation campaign against AC.

• He improved the efficiency of DC generators.

• He reduced the cost of DC electricity.

• He partnered with Tesla to promote AC.

Why was the 1893 Chicago World's Fair significant in the War of the Currents?

• It marked the first use of DC in a major event.

• It was the first time AC was used to power a large event.

• Edison won the contract to power the fair.

• It demonstrated the dangers of AC electricity.

What was the outcome of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair for Tesla?

• He lost the contract to Edison.

• He successfully powered the fair with AC.

• He partnered with Edison to promote DC.

• He decided to abandon AC technology.

What event marked the beginning of AC's dominance in electricity distribution?

• The electrification of New York City.

• The 1896 electrification of Buffalo.

• The invention of the electric light bulb.

• The opening of the first AC power plant.

Which natural resource was used to supply AC power to Buffalo in 1896?

• Coal

• Wind energy

• Solar energy

• Niagara Falls

In modern times, why is DC preferred for high-power transmission over long distances?

• It is cheaper to produce.

• It has lower transmission losses.

• It is safer for consumers.

• It is easier to convert to AC.

What modern technology primarily runs on DC electricity?

• Wind turbines

• LEDs and electric cars

• Traditional incandescent light bulbs

• Gasoline-powered cars

What is the role of choppers in modern DC transmission?

• They store electricity for later use.

• They convert DC currents to different voltages.

• They increase the voltage of AC.

• They convert AC to DC.