Glossary
Current (I)
Current is the rate of flow of electric charge through a circuit component.
Example:
When you turn on a flashlight, the current flows from the battery through the bulb, making it light up.
Energy
Energy is the total amount of work done or heat transferred, representing the total amount of power used over a period of time.
Example:
Your monthly electricity bill charges you for the total energy consumed by your household appliances, not just their instantaneous power.
Lightbulb Brightness
Lightbulb brightness is directly proportional to the electrical power dissipated by the bulb.
Example:
In a series circuit, the lightbulb brightness of two different bulbs can be compared by calculating the power dissipated by each, with the higher power indicating a brighter bulb.
Power
Power is the rate at which energy is transferred, converted, or dissipated in a circuit.
Example:
A high-performance gaming PC requires a power supply with high power output to run its components efficiently.
Resistance (R)
Resistance is a measure of a circuit component's opposition to the flow of electric current.
Example:
The heating element in a toaster has high resistance to convert electrical energy into thermal energy, toasting your bread.
Voltage (ΔV)
Voltage, or potential difference, is the electrical potential energy difference per unit charge between two points in a circuit.
Example:
A car battery provides a 12V voltage to power the car's electrical system.