Conventional Current

Definition

Conventional current refers to the assumed direction of flow of positive charges in an electrical circuit. It is the opposite direction to the actual movement of negatively charged electrons.

Analogy

Imagine a group of people walking in a circle, but they are all facing outward. Conventional current is like assuming that the people are moving in the same direction as their faces, even though they are actually walking in the opposite direction.

Related terms

Electron Flow: Electron flow refers to the actual movement of negatively charged electrons through a conductor, which is opposite to conventional current.

Direct Current (DC): Direct current is an electric current that flows continuously and always in one direction, such as from a battery.

Alternating Current (AC): Alternating current is an electric current that periodically reverses its direction, commonly used for power distribution in homes and buildings.