Electricity Basics and Formulas

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering the fundamentals of electricity, including key definitions, units of measurement, and electrical formulas.

Voltage ($V$)

The electrical potential difference, analogous to the pressure pushing water through pipes, measured in Volts ($V$).

Current ($I$ or $A$)

The flow rate of electrical charge passing a point per second, measured in Amperes ($A$).

Resistance ($R$)

The opposition to current flow, analogous to the narrowness or obstruction in a pipe, measured in Ohms ($\Omega$).

Power ($P$)

The rate at which electrical energy is transferred, representing the total work the electrical flow can do, measured in Watts ($W$).

Ohm's Law

The formula that relates Voltage, Current, and Resistance, expressed as $V = I \times R$.

Power Formula

The formula that relates Power, Voltage, and Current, expressed as $P = V \times I$.

Wattage Calculation (Current and Resistance)

A variation of the power formula used when voltage is unknown, expressed as $P = I^{2} \times R$.

Amperes Calculation ($I=P/V$)

The method to calculate current when Power ($P$) and Voltage ($V$) are known.

Amperes Calculation ($I=V/R$)

The method to calculate current when Voltage ($V$) and Resistance ($R$) are known, derived from Ohm's Law.

Voltage Calculation ($V=P/I$)

The method to calculate voltage when Power ($P$) and Amperes ($I$) are known.

Nameplate

A label on electrical devices that provides crucial information for safety and installation, such as the designed Voltage ($V$) and Wattage ($W$) or Current ($A$).