Basic Electricity-in HVAC Questions with Complete Answers

Alternating current (AC) current that reverses its direction of flow periodically. Reversals generally occur at regular intervals. Ampere The amount of current required to flow through a resistance of one ohm with a pressure of one volt, measured with an ammeter. Atom the smallest part of an element that contains all the properties of that element. Compound A substance that is a combination of atoms from at least two different elements. Conductor A wire that is used for the path of electric flow. Most electric conductors are copper or aluminum. Current Electrons flowing in an electric circuit, measured in amperes. Direct current An electron flow in only one direction; used in the industry only for special applications such as solid-state modules and electronic air filters. Electric energy Energy that is produced by a movement of electrons. The energy can be produced by chemical, light, thermal, or mechanical means. Electric power The rate at which electricity is being used, measured in watts. Electric pressure Another term used to refer to electromotive force, potential difference, and voltage. Electricity Energy that is capable of producing and electron flow. An unbalanced condition that results when an electron can be easily displaced from an atom. Electrodes The dissimilar metal conductors in a battery that produce a small difference of potential. Electrolyte