The Basics of Electricity: Part 2

Currents are controlled with circuits.

A circuit is a path for the flow of electrons.

Wires are used to create a circuit.

A switch turns a circuit on and off.

A closed switch = ON (left)

An open switch = OFF (right)

Series circuit

Parallel circuit

Conductors: material through

which electric current flows easily.

Insulators: materials through

which electric current cannot move.

Water

Metal

Styrofoam

Rubber

Plastic

Paper

Closed switch = on

Open switch = off

A fuse is a safety device that prevents short circuits

A circuit breaker is a device that will "turn off" a fuse if the electrical flow is too strong

Short circuits happen when the path of the wire is not connected properly

(the device will not work properly, can start fires)

Circuits need to be grounded meaning part of the electrical

energy needs to be directed to the ground