Basic Electricity Review

COURSE DESCRIPTION

Modern electrical systems contain a great deal of electrical equipment that needs to be maintained and repaired.  To perform electrical maintenance tasks correctly and efficiently, Lineworkers must have (1) a basic understanding of the fundamentals of electrical theory; (2) a specific knowledge of the way electrical devices operate; and (3) practical hands-on experience.

COURSE GOAL

• Basic Electricity Theory reviews the fundamental principles of electrical theory as applied to electrical circuits and devices such as transformers, inductors, and capacitors.  The general topics covered in this unit include the nature of electricity; basic electrical quantities and their units of measurement; electrical circuits; and electromagnetism.

SUBJECTS AND OBJECTIVES

Where Does Electricity Come From?

• Describe the structure of an atom.

• State the three characteristics of electrical charges.

• List six major sources of electricity.

Basic Electrical Quantities

• Explain what current, voltage, and resistance are.

• Describe the way in which current, voltage, and resistance are related.

• Define the terms watt and watt-hour.

Series and Parallel Circuits

• Describe the difference between a series circuit and a parallel circuit.

• Explain how current, voltage, and resistance are calculated in series circuits and in parallel circuits.

Electromagnetism

• Define electromagnetism.

• Describe the effect of a changing magnetic field on a conductor

• Define induction.

• Describe how a transformer is constructed.

Inductance and Inductors

• Define self-induction.

• Describe the characteristics of inductance.

• Describe the parts of a typical inductor and explain what an inductor does.

Capacitance and Capacitors

• Define capacitance.

• Describe a typical capacitor and explain how a capacitor stores energy.

• Explain the hazards associated with capacitors.