Electricity Unit Flashcards
Function of an energy source and an example
Provides energy for electrons to move through the circuit. ex. a cell
function of an electrical load and an example
convert electrical energy to another form. ex. light bulb
function of a control device and an example
allows or stops the flow of electrons. ex. light switch
function of a connector and an example
provides a path for electrons to flow. ex. conducting wire
define static electricity.
an electric charge that tends to stay on the surface of an object rather than flowing away quickly.
describe charging by friction.
two neutral objects are rubbed together. one object loses electrons, and one gains electrons.
what is an electrostatic series?
a list of materials that have been arranged according to their ability to hold on to electrons.
what’s an insulator? provide examples.
a material in which electrons cannot move easily from one atom to another. ex. wood, rubber
what’s a conductor? provide examples.
a material in which electrons can move easily from one atom to another. ex. silver, copper
what is a ground and what is grounding?
a ground is an object that can neutralize a charged object. grounding is when you use a ground to neutralize an object.
define current electricity.
an electric charge that flows quickly through a conductor in a closed pathway.
explain an electric current.
refers to the rate of movement of electric charge. an ammeter is used to measure the electric current, and it is always connected in series.
explain potential difference (voltage).
the difference between the electrical potential energy, per unit of charge, at two points in a circuit. a voltmeter is used to measure potential difference, and it is always connected in parallel.
explain resistance.
the ratio of potential difference to current. a resistor is used to measure resistance, and its always connected in series.
