Electricity Basics: Definition, Sources, Conductors, and Circuits

Definition of Electricity

• Electricity is the set of physical phenomena associated with the presence and flow of electric charge.
• It is a form of energy resulting from the movement of charged particles, such as electrons.

Electric Sources

• Electric sources are devices that produce electric energy, such as:
  • Batteries
  • Generators
  • Solar panels
  • Fuel cells
• These sources provide the energy required to power electrical devices and systems.

Conductors and Insulators

Conductors

• Conductors are materials that allow electric current to flow through them with minimal resistance.
• Examples of conductors:
  • Metals (copper, aluminum, gold)
  • Carbon
  • Saline solutions
• Conductors have free electrons that can move freely, allowing electric current to flow.

Insulators

• Insulators are materials that resist the flow of electric current.
• Examples of insulators:
  • Non-metallic materials (wood, plastic, glass)
  • Rubber
  • Dry air
• Insulators have few or no free electrons, making it difficult for electric current to flow.

Circuits

• An electric circuit is a path through which electric current flows.
• A circuit consists of:
  • A power source (electric source)
  • Conductors (wires)
  • Devices that use electric energy (loads)
  • A return path for the electric current
• Circuits can be:
  • Series circuits: components connected one after the other
  • Parallel circuits: components connected between the same two points
  • Series-parallel circuits: a combination of series and parallel connections