What is electric current?

Electric current is the rate of flow of charged particles in an electric circuit. Since the unit of charge is Coulomb (C) and that of time is seconds (s), the units of electric current are Coulomb/s or, more specifically, Amperes or A. The charged particles causing the electric current are typically the electrons. The motion of these negatively charged particles result in the electric current. Current is typically denoted by the symbol I.

There are two types of currents: alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC). In the case of direct current, electrons flow in one direction, while in the case of alternating current, the direction of electron flow cycles (at about 50 Hz or 60 Hz). At our homes we use alternating current, while batteries supply us with direct current.

Hope this helps.