A simple circuit diagram

A simple circuit diagram

ZIMSEC O Level Combined Science Notes: Current electricity

  • When electricity flows from one point to another through a conductor this is known as electric current
  • Electric current when electricity flows from one point to another through a conductor
  • If an electric cell is used
  • Charge flows from the positive terminal of the cell
  • through the circuit
  • to  the negative terminal of the cell
  • An electric current is a flow of electrons
  • Through the conducting circuit
  • Or the flow of ions in an electrolyte
  • This is also known simply as the current
  • It is measured in amperes
  • This is shown as amps or A
  • The amount of current flowing through a circuit is measured using an ammeter
  • The ammeter is connected in series

Electrical symbols

Common electric symbols

Common electric symbols

  • Symbols are often used when electric diagrams are diagrams
  • The diagram above shows some of these symbols and the devices they represent
  • A straight line is used to show a conducting wire
  • A lot of other symbols are used that are not shown on this diagram
  • Each will be labelled for your convenience under each of the topic it appears

To access more topics go to the Combined Science Notes page.