Voltage is the pressure that pushes charged electrons (current) through a conducting loop, and is measured in volts (V). It’s the difference in electric potential energy between two different points in a circuit, and higher voltages cause more electricity to flow to an electronic device.

We have two types of Voltage which are “AC Voltage” and “DC Voltage.

What is Voltage Drop?

Voltage drop means the decrease in electricity strength as it travels from the power source to the device using it. When electricity moves through wires, they naturally resist its flow. Voltage Drop happens because of this resistance, which causes some electricity strength to be lost along the way.

Voltage drop can cause many devices to not perform at their peak, such as:

• Motors might run slower
• Lights could dim
• Sensitive electronic devices might malfunction or provide inaccurate outputs
• Severe voltage drops can lead to equipment overheating, presenting potential fire risks

Voltage Drop Calculation

voltage drop calculated using the formula V = R * I, where 

• V represents the voltage, 
• R denotes the resistance, and 
• I stands for the current flowing through the circuit.

This formula, known as Ohm’s Law, is fundamental in electrical engineering, stating that the voltage drop across a conductor or load is the result of the product of current and resistance. 

In simpler terms, V = R ∗ I gives us the voltage drop across an electric component, with resistance measured in ohms (Ω) and current measured in amperes (A). Ohm’s law plays a significant role in understanding the behavior of electrical components, forming a cornerstone of the constitutive equations that express the physics governing these components. Additionally, when determining the voltage drop of circuit conductors, one can simply multiply the circuit’s current by the total resistance of the circuit conductors, represented as VD = I x R. Understanding these principles helps ensure efficient and reliable electrical systems.

What is AC Voltage?

Alternating current (AC) voltage is the changing power between two spots where the electricity moves back and forth. It happens when the power between these two spots switches back and forth regularly. AC voltage and currents have three main parts: how strong they are, how fast they change, and their timing. They can change regularly or not, and they can have different shapes. But, all shapes can be made from a mix of wavy lines, with the most common one being like hills and valleys.

What is DC Voltage?

DC voltage, also known as direct current voltage, is the power in a circuit where the electricity flows in a straight line, without changing direction. Unlike AC (alternating current), which goes back and forth, DC electricity moves steadily in one direction. DC voltage can stay the same all the time or change. When it’s constant, it stays at the same level and in the same direction. But when it’s variable, it changes in strength while still flowing in the same direction.

Key Differences between AC and DC Voltage

• Direction of Flow:

DC flows steadily in one direction, while AC switches back and forth.

• Voltage and Current Behavior:

DC voltage remains constant over time, whereas AC voltage changes continuously.

DC current stays constant, while AC current fluctuates.

• Common Uses:

DC powers electronics, batteries, and vehicles.

AC is used in HVAC systems, refrigeration, and building lighting.

• Generation:

AC can be made using an alternator.

DC can be created using a generator with a special part called a commutator, or from batteries.

• Safety Considerations:

AC is usually seen as more dangerous than DC because it has more paths to enter the body.

However, the body’s resistance is generally higher for DC, and it might be easier to let go of a DC current compared to AC.