Electric Circuit and Direction of Current
In this section of Chapter 8 on Current Electricity, we delve into the fundamental concept of an electric circuit, which is defined as a closed conducting path through which electric current can flow. The distinction between conventional current and electron flow is particularly important in understanding how circuits operate. Conventional current is defined as flowing from the positive terminal to the negative terminal of a source, while electron flow, which constitutes the actual flow of charge carriers, moves in the opposite direction—from negative to positive. This section establishes a basis for understanding the functioning of electric circuits and prepares students for more complex concepts related to current, resistance, and energy.