Electrical System

What does the car battery do in the electrical system?

Supplies electrical energy to start the engine and run the car's electrical system.

What is a lead-acid battery?

A battery that makes electricity through a reaction between lead and lead oxide plates in sulfuric acid and water.

What kind of energy conversion happens in a car battery?

Chemical energy is converted into electrical energy.

What creates the voltage difference across a battery's terminals?

The chemical reaction causing electrons to flow through the battery.

What does the battery's voltage difference power?

The starter motor and other electrical components.

What is the starting system?

The system that uses stored battery energy to run the starter motor and turn the engine over.

What does the starter motor do?

Turns the engine over to begin combustion so the engine can run on its own power.

What is the charging system?

The system that converts mechanical energy from the engine into electrical energy and sends it to the battery.

What is the alternator?

The main unit of the charging system, which converts mechanical energy into electrical energy.

What is the voltage regulator?

The component that keeps charging system voltage at a safe level.

What is a rectified bridge?

A circuit that helps the alternator's output charge and distribute electrical energy efficiently.

What does a vehicle's lighting system include?

Interior lights for the instrument panel and cabin, plus headlights and taillights.

What do drivers use to control the lights?

Switches that determine electrical flow within the lighting circuit.

What protects lighting circuits?

Fuses or circuit breakers.

How do fuses and circuit breakers protect a circuit?

They cut off current when the circuit draws more than intended, preventing overheating and fire.

What are the three components of a vehicle's computer system?

The electronic control unit, sensors, and actuators.

What is the electronic control unit (ECU)?

The 'brain' of the computer system, coordinating systems such as the engine, transmission, and brakes.

What is a scan tool?

The device a technician uses to communicate with the ECU when something is wrong.

What is the diagnostic data link?

The connection point, usually near the driver's seat, where a scan tool plugs in.

What are sensors?

Devices that measure conditions such as temperature, pressure, and position and report them to the ECU.

What are actuators?

Devices that take signals from the ECU and perform an action, such as opening a valve or engaging the brakes.

What is the difference between a sensor and an actuator?

A sensor measures and reports to the ECU; an actuator receives orders from the ECU and acts.