What is Electricity? | Definition, Types, Formula & Examples
What is Electricity?
In order to known about the basics of electricity, it is first necessary to understand the atom.
Atoms are small particles that make up all matter. They are so small that it takes billions of billions to make something as useful as a pencil. Inside atoms are smaller objects called electrons, protons, and neutrons. Electrons have a negative charge (-) and protons have a positive charge (+). Protons and neutrons stick to the center of the atom, called the nucleus. The electrons rapidly orbit around the outside. The positive charge of the protons prevents the electrons from flying away and leaving the atom.
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The electrons in the atom are where electricity gets its name. In some elements there are electrons on the outside of the atom, when a force is applied, they can be ejected and transferred to another atom. When a group of atoms are close together and electrons move from one atom to another in the same direction, it is called electricity. Electricity is the “flow” of electrons.
How do we make Electrons move to make Electricity?
We generate electricity by creating an electrical circuit. Consider the case where you turn on the lights in your house: when you flip the switch, you complete the circuit and current and electrons flow through the light bulb, turning on the light.
Here are some key elements to a circuit:
Power source: Be it your battery or wall outlet
Conductor: Conductor of electricity from one place to another
Load: any electrical energy, like the light bulb in the example above
Switch: The switch connects the circuit together to start the current
Is Electricity Safe?
Electricity can be dangerous. Some important things to keep in mind:
Electricity can be dangerous. A few important things to keep in mind:
Never play with electricity.
Always follow the instructions on the electrical appliance and ask your parents for help if you do not understand.
Never plug anything other than the appropriate plug into a wall outlet. When unplugging something from the wall, don’t pull the cord, use an outlet.
Never place electronic items in water, especially if they are plugged in.
Do not place objects on the power cord. The wires may be damaged and cause a fire.
These are just a few safety precautions to take when using electricity. If you are unsure, be sure to check with your parent or teacher.