Ampère

Definition

The Ampère (A) is the SI unit of electric current, defined as one coulomb of charge passing through a point in one second. It is named after André-Marie Ampère, a pioneer in electromagnetism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 1 Ampère equals 1 coulomb per second.
2. The Ampère is one of the seven base units in the International System of Units (SI).
3. André-Marie Ampère formulated Ampère's law, which relates magnetic fields to electric currents.
4. Electrical current is measured in Amperes using instruments like ammeters.
5. One milliampere (mA) is $10^{-3}$ A and one microampere ($\mu$A) is $10^{-6}$ A.

Review Questions

• What is the SI unit for electric current?
• How many coulombs pass through a point per second to equal one ampere?
• Who was the Ampère unit named after and what was his contribution to electromagnetism?

Related terms

Coulomb:

The unit of electric charge, defined as the quantity of electricity transported in one second by a current of one ampere.

Ampère's Law:

A fundamental relation that states that the integrated magnetic field around a closed loop is proportional to the electric current passing through the loop.

Ammeter:

An instrument used to measure electric current in amperes.