Electric Current & Circuits

These flashcards cover key concepts related to electric current and circuits including Ohm's law, series and parallel circuits, and the effects of resistance.

What is electric current defined as?

Electric current (I) is the flow of charge in a conductor, measured in Amperes (A).

What formula is used to calculate resistance?

Resistance (R) is calculated using the formula R = 𝝆ℓ / A.

What does Ohm's Law state?

Ohm's Law states that V = IR, where V is voltage, I is current, and R is resistance.

What happens to the total resistance in a series circuit when more resistors are added?

The total resistance increases in a series circuit with additional resistors.

What is the difference between AC and DC current?

DC (Direct Current) flows in one constant direction, while AC (Alternating Current) flows back and forth.

What is the unit of electric power, and how is it calculated?

The unit of electric power is Watts (W), calculated by P = IV = I²R = V²/R.

What causes current to flow in a circuit?

Current flows due to the potential difference (voltage) between two points.

What is the effect of resistance on the flow of current?

Resistance opposes the flow of current in a conductor.

What is a superconductor?

A superconductor is a material that exhibits zero resistance at sufficiently low temperatures.

Why is it important for household circuits to be wired in parallel?

Wiring in parallel allows devices to function independently; if one device fails, others can continue to operate.