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Current

Definition

Current refers to the flow of electric charge in a circuit. It is measured in Amperes (A) and represents the rate at which charges move through a conductor.

Analogy

Imagine current as a river flowing through a pipe. The amount of water passing through the pipe per unit time is similar to the flow of electric charges in a circuit.

Related terms

Amperes (A): Amperes, often abbreviated as A, is the unit used to measure current. It represents the quantity of electric charge passing through a point in a circuit per second.

Voltage: Voltage is the potential difference between two points in an electrical circuit. It determines how much energy each charge carries and affects the rate at which charges flow (current) in a circuit.

Resistance: Resistance is an opposition to the flow of current in an electrical circuit. It can be thought of as obstacles or barriers that slow down or limit the movement of charges.



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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.