Electrical Engineering

Electrical Current

Definition

The flow of electric charge through a conductor, measured in amperes (A). One ampere equals one coulomb of charge passing a point per second. Current flows from positive to negative (conventional) or negative to positive (electron flow).

Practical Note

Household circuits typically carry 15-20A. Electric vehicle chargers use 30-50A. Industrial motors may draw hundreds of amps. Current capacity determines wire sizing requirements.

Related Calculators

Related Terms