Electric Circuits Vocabulary

This set of vocabulary flashcards covers fundamental concepts of electric circuits, including components, diagram symbols, and the differences between series and parallel circuits based on the lecture notes.

Electric Circuit

A closed path along which electrons can flow from and return to an energy source.

Energy Source

A circuit component that provides the "push" that makes current move around a circuit.

Load

A component that converts electrical energy to another form, such as light and heat.

Wires

Conductors that connect the energy source and load, allowing electrons to flow.

Closed Circuit

A complete electric circuit that allows electrons to flow along an uninterrupted path.

Open Circuit

A circuit in which there is an opening that does not allow current to flow.

Switch

A control device that can complete or break a circuit it is connected to by opening or closing it.

Circuit Diagram

A drawing made with special symbols that show the components and connections in a circuit.

Cell / Battery

An electrical source in a circuit diagram where the longer side represents the positive terminal and the shorter side the negative terminal.

Lamp (light bulb)

A specific load that converts electricity to light and heat.

Resistor

A general load that converts electricity to heat.

Ammeter

A device used to measure current through a device, always connected in series.

Voltmeter

A device used to measure voltage across a device, always connected in parallel.

Series Circuit

An electric circuit that has only one path along which electrons can flow.

Parallel Circuit

An electric circuit where each component has its own path for current.

Junction Points

The points in a parallel circuit where the circuit divides into different paths.

Series Resistance

A state where the total resistance increases and current decreases as more resistors are added.

Parallel Resistance

A state where adding extra resistors decreases the total resistance of the circuit.