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Ampere (A)

Definition

An ampere is the unit used to measure electric current. One ampere represents one coulomb of charge passing through a point in one second.

Analogy

Think of an ampere as the rate at which water flows through a pipe. Just like gallons per second measures water flow, amperes measure the flow of electrical charge.

Related terms

Voltage (V): The potential difference between two points in an electrical circuit.

Ohm's Law: States that the current flowing through a conductor is directly proportional to the voltage across it and inversely proportional to its resistance.

Circuit Breaker: A safety device that automatically interrupts or breaks an electrical circuit when excessive current flows through it.



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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.