Electric Current: All Types Explained

In summary, all of the given options (a-e) would be considered currents, as electric current refers to the movement of charged particles, such as electrons or ions, caused by a potential difference.
  • #1
cathole
9
0
Which of the following would be considered a current?

a negative ions flowing in a liquid
b electrons moving in a vacuum
c positive ions flowing in a liquid
d electrons moving in a wire
e ions moving in a vacuum

I presume all of these would be electric currents after reading this definition...

Electric current means, depending on the context, a flow of electric charge (a phenomenon) or the rate of flow of electric charge (a quantity).[1] This flowing electric charge is typically carried by moving electrons, in a conductor such as wire; in an electrolyte, it is instead carried by ions, and, in a plasma, by both.[2]

"flow of electric charge"

I believe a-e are all electric charges.

Please help me confirm this... Thank you in advance for any help you can give.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Current is simply movement of charged particles, usually caused by a potential difference (voltage). All of these are examples of current, despite the charge.
 
  • #3
All of those answers are would be considered currents. Fact.
 

1. What is electric current?

Electric current is the flow of electric charge through a conductor. It is measured in amperes (A) and is defined as the rate at which electric charge passes through a given area in a circuit.

2. What are the different types of electric current?

There are two main types of electric current: direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC). DC flows in one direction, while AC periodically changes direction. Other types include pulsating current, which has a fluctuating amplitude, and transient current, which is a short-lived burst of current.

3. How is electric current produced?

Electric current is produced through the movement of electrons. This can be achieved through a variety of methods, such as chemical reactions (batteries), magnetism (generators), or pressure (piezoelectric effect).

4. What factors affect the flow of electric current?

The flow of electric current can be affected by several factors, including the voltage or potential difference, the resistance of the conductor, and the type of material the conductor is made of. Temperature and length of the conductor can also impact the flow of current.

5. What are some practical applications of electric current?

Electric current has countless practical applications, such as powering electronic devices, providing electricity for lighting and heating, and running motors in appliances and vehicles. It is also used in medical equipment, telecommunication systems, and industrial machinery.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
898
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
724
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
26
Views
424
  • Classical Physics
Replies
9
Views
229
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
856
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
711
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
833
Replies
5
Views
313
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
4K
Back
Top