Simple: Batteries and flow of charges

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SUMMARY

Batteries consist of two terminals, positive (+) and negative (-), with the positive terminal having a higher electric potential. When connected to a circuit, positive charges flow from the positive terminal to the negative terminal, while negative charges (electrons) flow in the opposite direction, from the negative terminal to the positive terminal. This flow is driven by the difference in electric potential between the terminals. Understanding this concept is crucial for grasping basic electrical circuits and battery functionality.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic understanding of electric potential and charge flow
  • Familiarity with battery terminology and components
  • Knowledge of circuit connections and configurations
  • Understanding of electron behavior in conductive materials
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of electric potential and its measurement
  • Learn about the construction and chemistry of different battery types
  • Explore circuit analysis techniques, including Kirchhoff's laws
  • Investigate the role of electrons in electrical conduction
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students in physics or electrical engineering, educators teaching basic electricity concepts, and hobbyists interested in electronics and battery technology.

AnXioZ
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Hello everyone.
I have a very simple problem here but I'm confused from the different concepts about the way charges or electrons flow inside the battery.

Here's the question
"Batteries always have two terminals, labeled + and -. The + terminal has the higher electric potential. If you connected the terminals to a circuit, which way would positive charges flow in the circuit? What about negative charges?"

Here's what my thoughts are
Since we have a terminal with higher electric potential this means that charges will flow from the place with higher EP to the place with lower EP. But which charges would that be?

I'm stumped...
 
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AnXioZ said:
Hello everyone.
I have a very simple problem here but I'm confused from the different concepts about the way charges or electrons flow inside the battery.

Here's the question
"Batteries always have two terminals, labeled + and -. The + terminal has the higher electric potential. If you connected the terminals to a circuit, which way would positive charges flow in the circuit? What about negative charges?"

Here's what my thoughts are
Since we have a terminal with higher electric potential this means that charges will flow from the place with higher EP to the place with lower EP. But which charges would that be?

I'm stumped...

Give this a read:

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/electric/elecur.html#c3

CS
 

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