What is Current?

How it Works and Measurement
  • Direction: By convention, current is defined as the flow of positive charge. Even though electrons (which are negative) physically travel from the negative to the positive terminal of a power source, conventional current is described as flowing from positive to negative. 
Units: Current is measured in amperes (or amps). One ampere corresponds to one coulomb of charge (about 6.24 × 10¹⁸ electrons) passing a given point in one second. Formula: The formula is \(I = \frac{Q}{t}\), where I is current, Q is net charge in coulombs, and t is time in seconds. 
Types of Electric Current
  • Direct Current (DC): The electric charge flows continuously in one single, unidirectional path. DC is commonly produced by batteries, solar panels, and electronic devices. 
  • Alternating Current (AC): The flow of electric charge periodically reverses direction. AC is the standard form of electricity delivered to homes and businesses by electrical grids, as it is highly efficient for long-distance transmission.

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