Electrical current

Definition

Electrical current is the flow of electric charge through a conductor, typically measured in amperes (A). It is driven by a potential difference (voltage) across the conductor.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Electrical current is measured in amperes (A), where 1 ampere equals 1 coulomb of charge passing through a point per second.
2. Ohm's Law relates current ($I$), voltage ($V$), and resistance ($R$) with the formula $V = IR$.
3. Direct current (DC) flows in one direction, while alternating current (AC) changes direction periodically.
4. The direction of conventional current is taken as the flow of positive charge, opposite to the actual electron flow.
5. Kirchhoff's Current Law states that the total current entering a junction equals the total current leaving the junction.

Review Questions

• What is the unit of measurement for electrical current?
• How does Ohm's Law relate voltage, current, and resistance?
• What is Kirchhoff's Current Law?

Related terms

Voltage: The electrical potential difference between two points, driving the flow of current.

Resistance: A material's opposition to the flow of electric current, measured in ohms ($\Omega$).

Conductor: A material that allows electric charges to flow easily due to its low resistivity.