Electricity and Magnetism Concepts

These flashcards cover the fundamental concepts of electricity and magnetism, including definitions, properties, and examples for better understanding and exam preparation.

What is an electron?

A tiny, subatomic negatively charged particle.

What is a conductor?

A material that allows electrons to flow easily through it, such as copper or gold.

What is an insulator?

A material through which electrons cannot easily flow, such as rubber or plastic.

What is a circuit?

A path that electrons travel on.

What does voltage measure?

The force pushing electrons, measured in volts (V), for example, AA batteries have 1.5V and wall sockets have 120V.

What do amps measure?

The speed of the current, measured in amperes (A).

What happens in a complete circuit?

Electrons flow from the battery to the motor, causing it to spin.

What is static electricity?

The accumulation of electric charge on an object, resulting from an imbalance of positives and negatives.

What happens when like charges are brought close together?

They repel each other; opposites attract.

What is discharge in terms of electricity?

The release of electrons back to positive charges.

What is magnetism?

The force of attraction or repulsion between magnetic objects, associated with magnetic fields.

What does the Earth's magnetic field protect us from?

Solar flares.

What is a magnetic domain?

An area within a material where the magnetic fields of atoms are aligned in the same direction.

What creates a permanent magnet?

A magnet whose domains are always lined up.

What is the difference between a permanent magnet and a temporary magnet?

Permanent magnets have domains that are always aligned, while temporary magnets have domains that can be temporarily aligned.