How Electricity Works

Electricity is what goes on whenever there is a presence and flow of electric charge. This could include lightning, static electricity, even electromagnetism. In simple scientific definition, electricity or an electric charge occurs when electrons jump from one atom to another.

An electronic charge is a property of subatomic particles that acts with electromagnetic force. A charge may be transferred between bodies either through direct contact or via a conducting material.

An electric current is the movement of electric charge. It is measured in amperes.

An electric circuit is a connection of various components with a return path to enable the charge to return to its source.

The study of electric fields is called electrostatics. This concept was introduced by Micahel Faraday. An electric field is created by a charged object in its immediate space.

A relationship between magnetic fields and electric currents is called electromagnetism. This led to the invention of electric generators.

As a practical source of energy, electricity can be utilized in a number of ways. Presently, we use electricity for transport, heating, lighting, communication, and computation. Mass consumption of electricity entails that electrical energy must be generated and transmitted in bulk.

Electric energy is generated by generators, driven by steam produced from various energy sources. With the invention of the transformer in the late 19th century, electricity can be transmitted to faraway locations.