Circuit and Switch Basics
Electrical components are in many things we use on a daily basis, from lights, to computers, to electronic toothbrushes. Each of these devices includes one or more circuits. The basic components of a circuit are an energy source, a conducting material, and a load. In order for a circuit to be useful, it needs a method of control. This module will discuss circuits and how they can be controlled.
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Learning Objectives
• List and describe the basic components of a circuit • Differentiate between series and parallel circuits • Explain the purpose of a switch • Describe different types of switches
Specs
| Course Level | Intermediate |
| Languages | English |
| Compatibility | Audio, Video |
| Based on: | Industry Standards and Best Practices |
Key Questions
What is a “load”?
The term “load” refers to the component(s) that use the electricity, for example a light bulb.
What is the purpose of a switch?
The purpose of a switch is to break, interrupt, or divert the current in a circuit.
What is the difference between series and parallel circuits?
In a series circuit, each load is connected sequentially and current flows in a single path through the circuit while in a parallel circuit, the current flows through each load in independent paths.
Sample Video Transcript
The first component in a circuit is an energy source. The energy source can be a battery, a fuel cell, or a solar cell. The energy source will have two terminals: a positive and a negative. The next component is the load. The load refers to the device you wish to power. This could be a light bulb, heating element, or a motor. To create a circuit, the load and the energy source must be connected by a conductive material. The conductive material allows electrons to flow out of the negative end of the energy source, through the conductive material, to the load, and back to the positive end of the energy source.
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