P2 - Static and Current Electricity Flashcards
What is another way of saying ‘voltage’?
(Electrical) Potential difference
Define ‘voltage’
Voltage is the “work done per unit charge”.
What is the unit of voltage?
The volt (V).
What measuring device do we use to measure voltage in an electrical circuit?
A voltmeter.
How do you connect a voltmeter in a circuit to find the voltage across a part of the circuit?
You connect a voltmeter “in parallel” across the component.
Define electric current.
Current is the “rate of flow of charge”. It can be though of as the flow of electrons.
What is the unit of electric current?
The ampere, or ‘amp’ for short. (A)
Which measuring instrument do you use to measure current through a component?
An ammeter. Watch the spelling.
What is electrical resistance?
Components in circuits have resistance, and this reduces the flow of charge. Resistance reduces the current.
What is the unit of electrical resistance?
The ohm. (Ω)
How do you connect an ammeter into a circuit to measure the current flowing through a component?
You connect an ammeter “in series” with the component. This means in the same loop.
