Static Electricity

Electricity is basically the movement of electrons. When electrons build up in one place, we call that static electricity. That's what happens when you shuffle across a carpet and then touch a doorknob - zap!

The shock happens because electrons jump from you to the doorknob, trying to balance out the charge difference. Lightning is just static electricity on a massive scale.

Current Electricity

When electrons flow continuously through a conductor, we get current electricity. This is what powers our homes and gadgets. The flow of electrons through wires is like water flowing through pipes.

Voltage is the "pressure" pushing electrons through. Current is how many electrons flow past each point. Resistance is how hard it is for them to move.

Ohm's Law

Voltage equals current times resistance. This simple relationship is the foundation of all electrical circuits. It's why thicker wires have less resistance - more room for electrons to flow.