Electricity

Electricity is a form of energy resulting from the existence of charged particles (such as electrons or protons), either statically as an accumulation of charge or dynamically as a current.

Overview

Electricity is a secondary energy source that we get from the conversion of other sources of energy, such as coal, natural gas, oil, nuclear power, and other natural sources. These are called primary sources. The energy sources we use to make electricity can be renewable or non-renewable, but electricity itself is neither renewable nor non-renewable.

History

The discovery of electricity is often linked to Benjamin Franklin's famous kite experiment in the 18th century, but electricity and its effects were observed long before this. Ancient Egyptians were aware of shocks from electric fish, and Greek philosophers noted that rubbing fur on various substances, like amber, would cause an attraction between the two.

Generation

Electricity is most often generated at a power station by electromechanical generators, primarily driven by heat engines fueled by combustion or nuclear fission but also by other means such as the kinetic energy of flowing water and wind. Other energy sources include solar photovoltaics and geothermal power.

Distribution

Electricity is usually sold by the kilowatt hour (3.6 MJ) which is the product of the power in kilowatts multiplied by running time in hours. Electric utilities measure power using an electricity meter, which keeps a running total of the electric energy delivered to a customer.

Uses

Electricity is used for a vast number of purposes, including lighting, heating, cooling, and powering appliances and machines. It is also used in telecommunications, transportation, and in medical applications such as electrocardiograms and x-ray machines.

Safety

While electricity is incredibly useful, it is also potentially dangerous. Electrical shock can cause injury or death, and electrical fires can cause significant property damage. Therefore, it is important to follow safety guidelines when using electricity.

See also

• Electric power
• Electric energy consumption
• Electric field
• Electric charge
• Electric potential
• Electric current

References

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