Electrical energy

Definition

Electrical energy is the energy derived from electric potential or kinetic energy of charged particles. It can be converted into various forms such as heat, light, and mechanical energy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Electrical energy is quantified in joules (J) in the International System of Units (SI).
2. The law of conservation of energy states that electrical energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transformed.
3. Power, measured in watts (W), is the rate at which electrical energy is transferred by an electric circuit.
4. Ohm's Law relates voltage (V), current (I), and resistance (R) in an electrical circuit: $V = IR$.
5. In alternating current (AC) circuits, electrical energy can be calculated using root mean square (RMS) values for voltage and current.

Review Questions

• How does the law of conservation of energy apply to electrical energy?
• What unit is used to measure electrical energy, and how is power related to it?
• Explain Ohm's Law and its significance in determining electrical parameters.

Related terms

Voltage:

The electric potential difference between two points, measured in volts (V).

Current:

The flow of electric charge through a conductor, measured in amperes (A).

Resistance:

\(Resistance\) opposes the flow of electric current through a conductor, measured in ohms ($\Omega$).