Electrical Energy Fundamentals

According to the electron theory, all matter is made up of atoms. Each atom has a nucleus or center of protons (positively charged particles) and neutrons (neutral particles). Negative particles, called electrons, orbit the nucleus. Electrons are attracted to the protons in the atom. This attraction keeps them in orbit.

• Electron Travel

Electrons (negative charges) pass readily out of the atoms of some substances. In other substances the electrons can travel only with much effort. Materials through which electrons pass easily are called conductors. Those where passage is difficult are called insulators.

• Equilibrium

If a negatively charged body is connected to a positively charged body by a conductor, such as a wire, the electrons will be attracted to the positive particles. The Nature prefers everything to be neutral - equal numbers of positive and negative charges. As a result, electrons will flow from negatively charged body to the positive one. This flow is called current.

• Circuit (Electrical Path)

No electron flow will occur unless there is a pathway over which the electrons can move. This pathway is called a circuit.

1. A Series Circuit is one in which only one path is provided for current and the electricity must always flow through every device in the circuit. If one device is burned out the circuit will not function.
2. Parallel Circuit has a complete path for the current to follow. The difference in a parallel circuit is that there is more than one path for the current. Each path can operate independently of the other paths in the circuit.

• Measuring Electricity

Measuring electricity is essential - how much, how fast and with what force the electricity goes through something.

1. Amperage is the rate at which electricity flows. Technically, the number of electrons passing a given point in an electric conductor is directly related to the amperage. The units of measure are simply called amperes or "amps", abbreviated I or A.
2. Voltage is the pressure that moves electrons through a conductor. The units of measure are called volt, abbreviated E or V.
3. Resistance is the opposition to the flow of electrons through a conductor. The units of measure are called ohms, abbreviated R or W.
4. Wattage is the amount of power derived from an electrical device or system. The units of measure are called watts, abbreviated P or W.

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