Electricity

What have we learned so far… Electricity Used in our everyday lives Defined as energy carried as electrons, protons, and other subatomic particles There are two types of electric charges + and - Opposite charges attract, like charges repel When positively and negatively charged objects break each others electric field the electrons from the negatively charged object to the positively charged object

Continued Some materials allow electrons to move easily through them – Conductors Example: Metals Some materials do not allow electrons to move easily though them – Insulators Example: Rubber, Plastic, Wood, Glass

What do we call the electrical build up on the balloon or from rubbing our feet on the carpet? Static electricity Defined as the net accumulation of electric charges on an object

We know opposites attract….. What happens if a negatively charged object comes close to a neutrally charged object? Charged by Induction

Electric Current An electric current is the flow of electrons through a wire or any conductor Measured in Amperes (A) Two keys to having an electric currents 1. Potential Difference 2. Circuit 1. Potential Difference – The difference in potential between two different places 2. Circuit – A closed path through which electrons can flow

What does all of this mean? Recall that thermal energy flows from objects with higher temperatures to objects with lower temperatures This is similar with electricity, except instead of temperatures we have charges Greater Potential Energy  Lesser Potential Energy Potential Energy is measured in Volts (V)

What about circuits??? When using electricity you want a continuous flow of electrons through whatever you are trying to power. If you have a potential difference all you need is a closed path or circuit through which electrons can flow The flow of electrons through the circuit is called the current

What creates the potential difference? Electrical Outlets Batteries Dry Cell Wet Cell

How does a light bulb work? Light bulbs use resistance to work