Types of Electricity
Which type of electricity involves charges staying in one place?
Static electricity
What happens when a charged object is placed near a neutral object?
The neutral object is attracted
What two things are required to complete an electric circuit?
A power source and a path for energy to flow
What is a conductor?
A material electricity flows through easily
Which object uses electrical energy?
A spinning fan
A balloon rubbed with wool sticks to a wall. What type of electricity is this?
Static electricity
Why are small paper pieces attracted to a comb rubbed with wool?
They have opposite charges
What is the purpose of a switch in a circuit?
To control the flow of energy
Why are copper wires used in circuits?
Copper is a good conductor
Why are plug prongs made of metal?
Metal conducts electricity well
Which type of electricity flows through wires to power devices?
Current electricity
Which is an example of naturally occurring electricity?
Lightning
Why did a circuit not work if wires are not connected properly?
The circuit is incomplete
Which materials are poor electrical conductors?
Wood and foam
Which liquids are strong electrical conductors?
Salt water and lemon juice
Why is a spinning fan an example of current electricity?
Because electrical energy flows continuously through the fan
Why does hair stand up after being combed on a dry day?
Static electricity causes charges to repel
Which design BEST describes a complete circuit?
One with a power source, wires, and a continuous path
Why do electricians use plastic-coated wires?
Plastic is an insulator that prevents electric shock
Why would understanding conductors and insulators be important for an electrician?
To safely control the flow of electricity
A student says lightning and electricity in a wall outlet are the same because they both involve electric charges.
Do you agree or disagree? Explain your reasoning.
Disagree. Lightning is static electricity, while electricity in outlets is current electricity that flows through wires.
Why does static electricity build up more easily on a dry day than on a humid day?
Dry air allows electric charges to build up, while moisture in humid air helps charges move away.
A bulb does not light even though a battery and wires are connected.
What are TWO possible reasons the circuit is not working?
Possible answers include:
The circuit is not complete
A wire is loose or broken
The bulb is burned out
The battery is dead
Why is metal used inside electrical cords while rubber or plastic is used on the outside?
Metal conducts electricity to allow energy to flow, while rubber or plastic insulates to protect people from shock.
Explain how understanding circuits and conductors helps keep people safe when using electricity.
Understanding circuits and conductors helps people control the flow of electricity and prevent electric shocks or fires.