GCSE Physics Revision "Current in Series Circuits" Unit 4

Series circuit

A circuit in which the components are connected in a single path, allowing the current to flow in only one direction.

Electric current

The flow of electric charge, typically carried by electrons, through a conductor.

Current flow

The pattern in which the electric current moves in a series circuit, flowing from the negative end of the cell to the positive end.

Cell

A device that converts chemical energy into electrical energy, providing the voltage for the circuit.

Open switch

A switch that interrupts the flow of current when it is in the open position.

Closed switch

A switch that allows the flow of current when it is in the closed position.

Components

The different parts or elements of an electric circuit, such as lamps, switches, and cells.

Wires

The connecting lines in a circuit that allow the current to flow between the components.

Electrons

Negatively charged particles that carry the electric current in a circuit.

Energy transfer

The process by which electrical energy is converted into other forms of energy, such as light and thermal energy.

Electric current direction

The convention of representing the direction of current flow from the positive end of the cell to the negative end, even though electrons actually flow in the opposite direction.

Conventional current

The representation of current flow from the positive to the negative end, despite the actual flow of electrons in the opposite direction.

Ampere

The unit of electrical current, symbolized by capital A, used to measure the rate of flow of electric charge.

Ammeter

A device used to measure the current in a circuit, represented by the symbol shown.