S3.10.1 For the adult
Current in a circuit
When the bulb gives out light, is some of the electricity used up?
What this chapter teaches
A current is a flow of charge round a complete loop, measured in amps with an ammeter in the loop. The bulb does not use it up: the current is the same all round a series loop.
Three questions to ask
There is no one right wording. Listen for the idea.
- Why must an ammeter be part of the loop?
- If an ammeter before a bulb reads 0.3 A, what does one after the bulb read, and why?
- Which way do we draw the current, and which way do the electrons drift?
After the chapter, the learner can
- Explain current as a flow of charge round a circuit
- Explain that current is measured in amps with an ammeter
What they copy into their notebook
Current is a flow of charge round a loop. We measure it in amps with an ammeter in the loop. It is the same all round and is not used up.