Electric Current Rule: Charges flow from high-voltage areas to low-voltage areas

Voltage It is like an electrical pressure that pushes charge. Voltage Difference The push that causes charges to move. Measured in volts (V) A voltage difference must be present for electric charge to flow.

Closed Circuit What would happen to the water flow if a pipe broke? – The water would stop flowing. For water to flow, the pipe must always make a closed loop. The same is true for charges flowing through a wire Circuit: A closed, conducting Path Electric Current: the flow of charges through a wire or any conductor

Resistance The tendency of a material to oppose the flow of electrons, changing electrical energy into thermal and light energy. The size and length of ware affects its resistance Electrons move better through thick, short wires

Dry-Cell Batteries Dry-Cell Most common type of battery. A metal rod surrounded by moist electrolyte paste. May or may not be rechargeable Remote control, IPOD, CD player, radios toys

Wet-cell Batteries Wet-Cell Contains lead and solution of sulfuric acid. Used to provide the spark to start the engine. Car, truck, other motor vehicles

Electric Circuits Electrical devices – Rely on a source of electrical energy and wires. – Include a voltage source, a conductor, and device(s) that use the energy to do work.

Series Circut The current has only ONE loop to flow through. Use some holiday lights and flashlights Problem: When any part of a series circuit is disconnected, no current flows through the circut

Parallel Circuits Contain 2 or more branches for current to move through Use: houses Advantages When one branch is opened, the current continues to flow through the other Individual parts can be turned off without affecting the entire circuit

Parallel Vs. Series

Fuses and Circuit Breakers Fuses Contains a small piece of metal that melts if the current becomes too high. If it melts, it causes the break in the circuit and needs to be replaced Circuit Breaker Contains a piece of metal that bends when it gets hot. The bending causes the switch to flip and open the circuit and needs to be replaced

Electrical Power Electrical energy is converted easily to other types of energy Examples: – Converted to mechanical energy as the blades of a fan cool you – Converted to light energy in light bulbs – Converted to thermal energy in a hair dryer Electrical power: the rate at which electrical energy is converted to another form of energy