current
Definition
Current is the flow of electric charge through a conductor. The amount of current is measured in amperes (A). One ampere is equal to the flow of one coulomb of charge per second.
Current is caused by the movement of electrons. Electrons are negatively charged particles that are found in all atoms. In a conductor, the electrons are free to move around. When a voltage is applied to a conductor, the electrons start to move, creating a current.
The direction of current is from the positive terminal of a battery to the negative terminal. However, the actual movement of the electrons is from the negative terminal to the positive terminal.
Current is used in many different applications, including:
- Electricity: Current is used to power lights, appliances, and other electrical devices.
- Electronics: Current is used to power electronic devices, such as computers and radios.
- Magnetism: Current can create a magnetic field. This is used in motors, generators, and other devices.
How can the word be used?
The electrical current stop flowing when the circuit was broken.
Different forms of the word
Noun: current.
Adjective: current.
Adverb: currently.
Pronoun: current.
Etymology
The word "current" comes from the Latin word "currens," which means "running." The Latin word "currens" is ultimately derived from the Proto-Indo-European root *ker-, which means "to run.".
Question
What type of material can a current flow through?
AQA Science Exam Question and Answer
Question:
Electric current is a fundamental concept in electricity. Define electric current and explain how it relates to the movement of charge in a circuit.
Answer:
Electric Current is the flow of electric charge through a conductor, such as a wire. It is measured in amperes (A) and is the rate of flow of charge passing through a given point in the circuit.
Electric current is directly related to the movement of charge in a circuit. In a closed circuit, when a voltage (potential difference) is applied across the circuit, it creates an electric field. This electric field exerts a force on the free electrons within the conductor, causing them to move.
The movement of these free electrons constitutes the flow of electric charge, which we refer to as electric current. It is important to note that in a closed circuit, the amount of current entering one end of the conductor is equal to the amount leaving the other end, as the charge is conserved.
In summary, electric current is the flow of electric charge through a conductor, and it is a result of the movement of free electrons within the circuit due to an applied voltage. Understanding electric current is essential in comprehending how electricity is transmitted and used in various electrical devices and systems.