Fiveable
Fiveable

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 flowing through the pipe per unit time is similar to the amount of electric charge flowing through a wire per unit time.

Related terms

Voltage: Voltage is the electrical potential difference between two points in a circuit. It determines how much energy each charge carries and affects the flow of current.

Resistance: Resistance is the opposition to the flow of current in a circuit. It can be compared to obstacles or narrow sections in a river that slow down or restrict the water flow.

Ohm's Law: 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. It can be represented by the equation I = V/R, where I is current, V is voltage, and R is resistance.

collegeable - rocket pep

Are you a college student?

  • Study guides for the entire semester

  • 200k practice questions

  • Glossary of 50k key terms - memorize important vocab



© 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.


© 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.