Everyday Science · 45 sec
Electric current
The science behind something you encounter, use, or wonder about.
The useful idea
- The useful idea
An electric current is a flow of charged particles, such as electrons or ions, through an electrical conductor or space.
- How it works
It is defined as the net rate at which electric charge flows through a surface.
- Why it matters
The moving particles are called charge carriers, which may be of several types, depending on the conductor.
Why this matters
Look for Electric current the next time you notice this pattern in everyday life.
Try this
Look for Electric current the next time you notice this pattern in everyday life.
Test your recall
Which idea belongs to the explanation of Electric current?
- How it works
- The useful idea — correct
- Why it matters
An electric current is a flow of charged particles, such as electrons or ions, through an electrical conductor or space.