Electricity & Magnetism

proton

A subatomic particle that has a positive charge and that is found in the nucleus of an atom

neutron

A subatomic particle that has no charge and that is found in the nucleus of an atom

electron

A subatomic particle that has a negative charge

electric charge

an electrical property of matter that creates electric and magnetic forces and interactions

electrical conductor

a material in which charges can move freely

electrical insulator

a material in which charges cannot move freely

static electricity

A buildup of charges on an object.

semiconductor

an element or compound that conducts electric current better than an insulator does but not as well as a conductor does

magnet

any material that attracts iron and materials that contain iron

magnetic pole

one of two points, such as the ends of a magnet, that have opposing magnetic qualities

magnetic field

the region around a magnet where the magnetic force is exerted

magnetic force

the attraction or repulsion between magnetic poles

electromagnet

a coil that has a soft iron core and that acts as a magnet when an electric current is in the coil

Friction

Causes a transfer of electrons through objects rubbing together.

Induction

Rearranges the charges within an object without touching it.