Electrical & Laser Safety Flashcards
The Law of Conservation of Electrical Charge states:
The total amount of electrical charge in the universe is constant. Charges are “simply” transferred.
Charges that move are what chemical species and what is their charge?
Negatively charged electrons.
What is electricity?
The flow of electrons - electron movement
All electrical charges have an associated:
force field
Stationary electric charges possess potential energy measured in joules. What is an example of a medical device that holds potential energy?
Defibrillator
What is a conductor?
Any substance that permits the flow of electrons. Most metals are due to mostly empty electron shells.
What is an insulator?
Any substance that does not allow the flow of electrons. Non-metallic.
Can insulators hold a charge?
Yes. It can hold a static charge. ex: defibrillator charging
What is an electrical current
The amount (magnitude) of charge flowing per unit time.
What is resistance in terms of electricity?
The energy required to push electrons through a material
What is an electrical circuit?
Electrical charge flowing through a closed path
What is a Direct Circuit (DC). Give an example
Current flows in one direction only.
Ex: Energy commonly battery powered
What is an Alternating Circuit (AC)
Give an example
Current periodically changes direction.
Ex: Derive energy from wall outlets or AC generators
Describe a Series Circuit
There is only one path that the current can take. Voltages and resistances are additive.
Describe a Parallel Circuit, give an example
Current can take more than one path. A unique current will flow through each resistor independently.
ex: household ciruits
What is electrical power?
Power is the rate at which energy is expended or consumed
What two variables impact Ohm’s Law
Resistance and Conductance