1. Measurements in Electric Circuits
ELECTRICITY

2. Learning Goals
To be able to describe the different types of electrical measurements

3. There are 3 variables that can be measured in an electric circuit
Electric Current – the rate of flow of electrons past a certain point in a circuit
Potential Difference (Voltage) – the difference in electric potential energy per unit of charge
Resistance – the ability of a material to oppose the flow of electrons through it

4. Symbol for circuit diagrams
Current
Potential Difference
Resistance
Symbol I V R
Unit
Ampere (A)
Volt (V)
Ohms (Ω)
Device
Ammeter
Voltmeter
Ohmmeter
Symbol for circuit diagrams
How is it connected
Series
Parallel

5. Factors that Affect Resistance
Type of Material
Copper has low resistance, while nichrome (in a toaster) has high resistance
Length
The longer the wire, the higher the resistance
Thickness
The thicker the wire, the less resistance
Temperature
As temperature increases, the resistance usually increases

6. Multimeter
A single device that allows you to measure current, voltage, and resistance by changing settings

7. Success Criteria I CAN describe amperes, volts and ohms
I CAN explain the factors that affect resistance