Electricity and Magnetism Study Guide

Front

What is an insulator?

Back

An insulator is a material that does NOT allow electrons to flow easily. Examples include rubber, glass, and plastic.

Front

What is a conductor?

Back

A conductor is a material that allows electrons to flow easily. Examples include metals like copper and aluminum.

Front

What happens to the brightness of lights in a series circuit when another light is added?

Back

The lights would all remain lit, but would be dimmer.

Front

What is the primary reason an electric light bulb is hot to the touch?

Back

Current passing through it produces heat.

Front

What type of energy transformation occurs in a car battery when it powers headlights?

Back

The transformation is from chemical energy to electrical and light energy.

Front

What is a circuit?

Back

A circuit is a closed loop that allows electric current to flow.

Front

What is the difference between series and parallel circuits?

Back

In a series circuit, components are connected one after another, while in a parallel circuit, components are connected across common points.

Front

What is static electricity?

Back

Static electricity is the buildup of electric charge on the surface of objects.

Front

What is magnetism?

Back

Magnetism is a force that can attract or repel certain materials, typically metals like iron.

Front

What is an electromagnet?

Back

An electromagnet is a type of magnet in which the magnetic field is produced by an electric current.