Electric Charges and Currents
Electric Charge 3 parts of an atom –Proton ( + ) –Neutron ( o ) –Electron ( - ) Like charges repel Different charges attract
Electric Field An electric field extends outward through space around every charged particle It is strongest near the charged particle
Static Electricity Objects become charged when they gain or lose electrons Friction occurs when two objects are rubbed against each other Static electricity is the buildup of electric charges on an object
Conductors/Insulators Conductors permit electric charges to flow freely - examples: metals, Earth Insulators do not allow electric charges to flow freely - examples: rubber, glass, wood, plastic, air
Lightning Lightning forms when there is a discharge of static electricity Bolt travels from negative charges to positive charges Elect. Pot. Difference is the amount of work required to move a charge (Volts)
Batteries A battery is a device that produces electricity by converting chemical energy into electrical energy Batteries can be either dry cell or wet cell
Thermocouples A thermocouple is a device that produces electrical energy from heat energy Used in car engines, ovens, and gas furnaces
Electric Circuits A circuit provides a complete, closed pathway in which electricity can flow Two types (series/parallel) Our homes have parallel circuits - if one light goes out, the others stay on
Two Types of Circuits
Electrical Safety Houses are protected against fires by fuses and circuit breakers Know the 6 electric safety rules on pages 37-38