Polarity

Polarity in electricity refers to the direction or orientation of electrical charges in a circuit. It determines which terminal is positive (+) and which is negative (−). In a direct current (DC) circuit, polarity is fixed: current flows from the positive terminal to the negative terminal. In an alternating current (AC) circuit, polarity constantly changes as the current reverses direction.

Polarity is critical for proper operation of devices. For instance, many electronic components, like batteries and LEDs, require correct polarity to function. Reversing polarity in these cases can damage the device.