Electric Current Basics

Electric Current Flow

• A complete and unbroken path is essential for electric current to flow in a circuit.
• Current requires a defined loop from the power source through various components and back.

Circuit Control

• The flow of current in a simple circuit is regulated by a switch, which can open or close the circuit.

Open Switch Behavior

• When the switch is open, the circuit becomes broken, halting the flow of current.

Energy Transfer

• Energy is transmitted from the power source to circuit components like lamps and motors as electric current travels.

Battery Symbol

• In circuit diagrams, a battery is depicted with long and short parallel lines, indicating its terminals.

Direction of Current Flow

• Current flows from the positive terminal to the negative terminal of the power source, establishing a direction of flow.

Measurement of Electric Current

• The ampere (A) serves as the unit of measurement for electric current, quantifying its strength.

Voltage Measurement

• A voltmeter is the instrument used to measure electrical voltage within a circuit.

Energy Conversion Process

• Electricity generators convert energy from diverse sources into electrical power through a process known as electromagnetic induction.

Renewable Energy Sources

• Common renewable energy sources for electricity generation include wind, solar, and hydropower.

Voltage Reduction in Electricity Grid

• Substations are responsible for lowering high voltage levels for safe distribution within the electricity grid.

High-Voltage Electricity Transmission

• High-voltage electricity is transmitted over long distances during the transmission stage of electricity distribution.

Applications of Electricity

• Electricity is commonly used for powering residential and commercial buildings, running machinery, charging electric vehicles, and supporting communication systems.