Physics topic 1 definitions

Question 1

Electrostatic charge

Answer 1

An overall electric charge caused by an object gaining or losing electrons

Question 2

Protons

Answer 2

Positively charged subatomic particle found in the nucleus of all atoms

Question 3

Electron

Answer 3

Negatively charged subatomic particle found in shells around the nucleus of an atom

Question 4

Nucleus

Answer 4

The central part of an atom, containing protons and neutrons

Question 5

Neutrons

Answer 5

Electrically neutral subatomic particle found in the nucleus of most atoms

Question 6

Induction

Answer 6

When an object is charged by another charged object placed close to it

Question 7

Induced charge

Answer 7

An electrostatic charge caused by another charged object being brought near.

Question 8

Earthing

Answer 8

Connecting something to earth, so that any electrostatic charge can flow away.

Question 9

Discharge

Answer 9

To remove an electric charge by conduction

Question 10

Direct current

Answer 10

Electric current that flows in the same direction all the time

Question 11

Alternating current

Answer 11

Current whose direction changes many times each second

Question 12

Static electricity

Answer 12

Electric charges on insulating materials

Question 13

Coulombs

Answer 13

The unit for measuring charge

Question 14

Amperes

Answer 14

The unit for measuring current