Introduction

CURRENT ELECTRICITY

INTRODUCTION

In unit 1, we studied the properties of charges when it is at rest. In reality, the charges are always  moving  within  the  materials.  For example, the electrons in a copper wire are never at rest and are continuously in random motion. Therefore it is important to analyse the behaviour of charges when it is at motion. The motion of charges is called ‘electric current’. Current electricity is the study of flow of electric charges. It owes its origin to Alessandro Volta (1745-1827), who invented the electric battery which produced the first steady flow of electric current. Modern world depends heavily on the use of electricity. It is used to operate machines, communication systems, electronic devices, home appliances etc., In this unit, we will study about the electric current, resistance and related phenomenon in materials.