Electricity and Circuits

These flashcards cover vocabulary related to electricity and circuits, including key concepts, definitions, and measurement tools.

Conventional Current

The flow of positive charge, moving from the positive terminal to the negative terminal.

Current

The flow of negative charges, commonly referred to as the movement of electrons.

Conductors

Materials that allow electrons to flow easily due to loosely bound electrons.

Insulators

Materials that hold tightly to their electrons, slowing or stopping the flow of electricity.

Ampere (Amp)

Unit of measurement for the amount of electrons flowing through a certain point in a circuit.

Resistors

Electrical components that limit or slow the flow of electricity to control energy transfer.

Voltage (Volts)

Measures the force (push) that drives electricity through a circuit.

Series Circuit

A circuit configuration where all parts are connected end to end, forming a single path for current.

Parallel Circuit

A circuit configuration with multiple branches, allowing current to split and operate independently.

Ohm's Law

A formula (V = IR) that relates voltage (V), current (I), and resistance (R) in a circuit.

Voltmeter

A device that measures voltage between two points in a circuit, placed in parallel with the element.

Ammeter

A device that measures current flowing through a circuit, placed in series with the circuit.

Multimeter

A device that can measure voltage, current, and sometimes resistance in a circuit.

Loads

Devices in a circuit that convert electrical energy into useful forms such as heat or light.