Electricity and Circuits Flashcards

Flashcards about electricity, current, resistors, and circuits

Ampere (Amp)

The unit of measurement for electric current. It indicates how many electrons are moving around the circuit each second.

Ammeter

Instrument for measuring the size (strength) of an electric current in amps. It is connected in series.

Alternating Current (AC)

A type of current where the electric charge changes direction periodically, making it good for mains electricity.

Direct Current (DC)

A type of current where the electric charge flows in only one direction, such as in batteries.

Mains Electricity

Electricity that flows into the household from the national grid, enabling the use of electrical appliances.

Electron Current

The flow of electrons from the negative terminal to the positive terminal.

Conventional Current

Behaves as if positive charge carriers cause current flow. Flows from the positive terminal to the negative terminal.

Potential Difference (Voltage)

The electrical energy difference across each lamp in a circuit, measured in volts (V) using a voltmeter.

Voltmeter

A device used to measure voltage (potential difference) in volts. It is connected in parallel.

Ohm's Law

The current flowing through a metal wire is proportional to the potential difference across it, providing the temperature remains constant.

Resistance

The property of a material to oppose the flow of electric current, measured in ohms (Ω).

Resistor

A component that restricts or limits the flow of current in a circuit.

Formula for Resistance

R = V/I, where R = Resistance, V = Voltage, and I = Current

Resistors in Series

The total resistance (Rt) is equal to the sum of the individual resistances (R1 + R2 + …).

Resistors in Parallel

The reciprocal of the total resistance (1/Rt) is equal to the sum of the reciprocals of the individual resistances (1/R1 + 1/R2 + …).

Switch

A component that opens or closes a break in a circuit to turn the electricity off or on.

One-way Switch

Turns a single circuit on or off.

Two-way Switch

Allows you to switch a circuit on or off from two different places.

Three-way Switch

Makes it possible to control a light from multiple locations.

Static Electricity

Uncontrolled electrons passing from one body to another in sudden, momentary movements.

Current Electricity

Electrons are controlled by moving along a path together; the electrons all move in one direction.