What did Westinghouse's bankruptcy signify for the competition in the electrical industry?

• A. It marked the rise of AC technology
• B. It showed the strength of DC technology
• C. It began the era of corporate monopolies
• D. It allowed for more collaborative efforts

Answer: (A)

Westinghouse's bankruptcy is significant because it reflects the competitive dynamics of the electrical industry during the time, particularly the struggle between alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) technologies. Westinghouse was a strong proponent of AC electricity, which ultimately proved to be more efficient for long-distance transmission compared to DC. The challenges that Westinghouse faced, coupled with the decisions made by other industrialists, highlighted the shift in preference toward AC technology.

As utility companies and cities began to adopt AC for their electrical systems, the bankruptcy underscored the vulnerabilities of companies that supported DC technology, illustrating that AC was becoming the dominant standard. This also accelerated the transition toward a more unified electrical grid utilizing AC, changing the landscape of the electrical industry and reflecting a broader acceptance of AC power. This marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of electrical technology and its infrastructure, reinforcing the supremacy of Westinghouse's vision for the future of electricity.