Electricity Measurements

The most frequently used measurements for electricity define properties related to how the current flows through the circuit, such as the speed at which it moves and the amount of current moving at a given time.

Voltage measures the electrical force or pressure that moves a current through a circuit. It is measured in volts and is equal to energy per unit charge. The higher the voltage in a current, the more electricity is trying to move through the parts of the circuit.

Most residential applications use currents with 120 and 240 volts, but industrial applications can be considerably higher.

Current is measured in amperes (amps). This value determines the severity of injuries from electrical shocks.

Resistance measures the difficulty of passing an electric current through a substance. It is measured in ohms. The material through which the current flows is a key factor in determining resistance. Other factors such as the diameter, length, and temperature of the material are also important. Resistance is a key component of insulated tools and protective clothing.

Wattage is a measurement of power that describes the rate at which electricity is being used at a specific moment. This is measured in watts. A single watt is equal to one amp under the pressure of one volt.

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