Module 3: Electricity and Magnetism
1. Electric Circuits
An electric circuit consists of a power source, conductors, and components that
use or store energy.
1.1. Current and Voltage
Electric Current (I): The flow of electric charge through a conductor
(measured in Amperes, A).
o I=QtI = \frac{Q}{t}I=tQ, where QQQ is charge and ttt is time.
Voltage (V): The potential difference that causes current to flow
(measured in Volts, V).
o V=WQV = \frac{W}{Q}V=QW, where WWW is work done, and QQQ
is charge.
1.2. Resistance and Ohm’s Law
Resistance (R): The opposition to the flow of current (measured in Ohms,
Ω).
Ohm’s Law: V=IRV = IRV=IR, where VVV is voltage, III is current, and RRR
is resistance.
Factors that affect resistance include temperature, material, and length of
the conductor.
1.3. Circuits and Power
Series Circuits: Current is the same through all components, but voltage
is divided.
Parallel Circuits: Voltage is the same across all components, but current
is divided.
Power (P): The rate at which electrical energy is converted into other
forms (e.g., heat, light).
P=VIorP=I2RP = VI \quad \text{or} \quad P = I^2 RP=VIorP=I2R
2. Magnetism
Magnetism is the interaction of moving charges and magnetic fields.
2.1. Magnetic Fields
Magnetic Field (B): The region around a magnet where magnetic forces
are exerted.
Field Lines: Point from the North to South pole outside the magnet.
Inside, they run from South to North.
2.2. Electromagnetic Induction
Faraday’s Law of Induction: A changing magnetic field induces an
electric current.
ϵ=−dΦBdt\epsilon = -\frac{d\Phi_B}{dt}ϵ=−dtdΦB
where ϵ\epsilonϵ is the induced emf, and ΦB\Phi_BΦB is the magnetic flux.
Lenz's Law: The direction of the induced current is such that it opposes
the change in magnetic flux.
2.3. Electromagnetic Waves
Electromagnetic Spectrum: A continuum of waves, from radio waves to
gamma rays. All electromagnetic waves travel at the speed of light in a
vacuum.