Conductors, Insulators, and Electronic Devices

These flashcards cover the key concepts, definitions, and terms related to conductors, insulators, and electronic devices as discussed in the lecture.

Conductor

Materials that allow a relatively free flow of electric current due to the presence of free electrons.

Insulator

Materials with virtually no free electrons, making them very poor conductors of electricity.

Grounding

A process of connecting an electrical device to the earth via a conductor to neutralize electrical charges.

Electric Circuit

A closed pathway of electric current where electrons flow from a power source through wires and circuit elements.

Fuse

A protective device that melts and opens the circuit when too much current flows through it.

Circuit Breaker

A protective device that opens the circuit when the current exceeds a certain level, effectively stopping electric flow.

Resistor

A circuit element that inhibits the flow of electrons.

Capacitor

A circuit element that momentarily stores electric charge.

Ammeter

A device that measures electric current in a circuit.

Voltmeter

A device that measures electric potential (voltage) across a component.

Diode

A circuit element that allows electrons to flow in only one direction.

Transformer

A device that increases or decreases voltage in a circuit.

Rheostat

A variable resistor used to control current by adjusting resistance.

Open Circuit

A circuit in which the pathway is broken, causing current to stop flowing.

Closed Circuit

A complete circuit pathway that allows current to flow.

Electric Ground

A connection to the earth that serves as an infinite reservoir for electrical charges.