Science Entry: Electric circuits

More and more objects in the Modern Era rely on electricity. The basic item of an electrical system is called electric circuit, a complete path through which electric current can flow. Simple circuits are based on an energy source, some conducting wires and a resistor, but other elements can be added. An energy source provides the energy, while a switch is used to open and close the circuit. A resistor is a device, such as a light bulb, a computer or a microwave oven that converts electrical energy to another form of energy such as heat or light. An important information about an object in a circuit is related to its resistance. Objects with low or medium resistance are called conductors, and allows current to flow freely inside them. Objects with very high resistance are called insulators, and current do not flow easily inside them. The energy passes through the conductor in the wire while the insulator around the conductor protects people from electric shocks. Insulating materials are important in a circuit because if two conductors come in contact, they create an unintended path (also called a short circuit) causing a malfunction of the circuit itself.

Further information on electric circuits