Circuits Part 1 Flashcards
What is electric current?
A measure of the amount of electric charge that passes by a point in an electrical circuit each second
Electric current is like water flowing in a stream, not still like static electricity.
What are the two conditions for current electricity to flow?
1) There is an energy source
2) There is a complete path for electrons to flow through
What are the three main components of an electrical circuit?
1) Energy source
2) Conductor
3) Load
Some circuits may also contain a switch.
What is the function of a load in a circuit?
A device that uses electricity and turns it into another type of energy.
What materials are conductors made from?
Materials that allow the flow of electrons to move through wires
What is the purpose of a switch in an electrical circuit?
To make or break an electrical circuit, allowing or interrupting the flow of electrons
What is a battery?
A combination of electrochemical cells
What is an electrolyte?
A liquid or paste that conducts electricity because it contains chemicals that form ions
What are electrodes?
Metal strips that react with the electrolyte in electrochemical cells
What is the difference between wet cells and dry cells?
Wet cells use a liquid electrolyte, while dry cells use a paste electrolyte
Define direct current (DC).
An electric current that flows in one constant direction
How do electrons flow in a DC circuit?
From minus (negative) to plus (positive)
Give two examples of direct current.
1) Batteries
2) Phone chargers and power supplies for battery-operated devices
Define alternating current (AC).
An electric current where electrons move in alternating directions back and forth
What is the frequency of alternating current?
50-60 times per second (60Hz)
List two examples of where alternating current is used.
1) Electric power delivered to businesses and residences
2) Audio and radio signals
True or False: Electricity can flow without a complete path and a power source.
False
Fill in the blank: If electrons flow in one direction, it is called _______.
direct current (DC)
Fill in the blank: If electrons move back and forth at regular intervals, it is called _______.
alternating current (AC)
