DC Electrical Circuits Theory Introduction

These flashcards cover key concepts and terms related to DC electrical circuits, including definitions and explanations relevant to the theory of electricity.

Lead-Acid Battery

A battery system that converts chemical energy into electrical power, commonly used in marine applications.

Electric Circuit

A path for transmitting electrical current, consisting of an energy source, transport means, and consumer.

Ohm's Law

A principle that states the current through a conductor is directly proportional to the voltage across it and inversely proportional to its resistance.

Energy Source

The component in a circuit that provides electrical energy, such as a battery.

Transport Means

The medium through which electrical current flows, typically electric cables.

Consumer

The device or system that utilizes electrical energy supplied by the circuit, like light bulbs or motors.

Potential Difference (Voltage)

The measure of electric potential energy per unit charge between two points; it can be compared to pressure in fluid systems.

Current (I)

The flow of electric charge in a circuit, measured in amperes (A).

Resistance (R)

A material's opposition to the flow of electric current, measured in ohms (Ω).

Cross-Sectional Area (csa) of Cable

The area of the cable's cross-section which affects the amount of current it can carry; larger areas allow more current.

Conductivity (g)

A measure of a material's ability to conduct electric current, inversely related to resistivity.

Ohm (Ω)

The unit of electrical resistance named after Georg Simon Ohm.

Electrolyte

A liquid solution that conducts electricity in a battery, commonly a diluted solution of sulfuric acid (H2SO4).

Charge

An electrical property of matter, which can be positive or negative, leading to electric forces between objects.

Lead Oxide (PbO2)

The positive plate material in a lead-acid battery, involved in the chemical reaction during discharge.

Pure Lead (Pb)

The material of the negative plate in a lead-acid battery, participating in the conversion of chemical to electrical energy.

Sulphate Ions (SO4--)

Negatively charged ions produced in a lead-acid battery, essential for the chemical reactions during discharge.

Voltage Generator

A device that generates voltage, causing current to flow in a circuit, such as a battery.

Generator

A machine that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy, commonly used in power generation.

Impedance

The total opposition that a circuit offers to the flow of alternating current, combining resistance and reactance.

Electrical Potential Energy

The energy stored in an electric field; related to the positions of charged particles.

Marine Emergency DC Battery

A battery commonly used in marine applications to provide power during emergencies.