An electric circuit requires a controlled path for electric current to flow from an electric source through electrical loads like light bulbs or motors and back to the source. Connectors provide the path for current to flow between the different parts of a circuit which can be opened or closed using switches. A closed circuit allows electrons to flow continuously through the entire loop while an open circuit prevents flow due to a break or gap in the path.

1. Building an Electric Circuit

2. Building an Electric Circuit
Electric Circuit: A controlled path an
electric current passes through.

3. Building an Electric Circuit
Electrical Load: Anything that converts electrical energy
into another form of energy, such as sound, heat, or light.

4. Electrical Loads
light bulb resistor motor
Symbols for loads

5. Building an Electric Circuit
Connectors: Provide a path for electric current to
flow to each part of the circuit.

6. Connectors
They are typically conductors wrapped with insulators.

7. Connectors
Symbols for connectors

8. Building an Electric Circuit
Electric Source: Where the electricity comes from.

9. Electric Source
Negative Positive
side side
Symbols for sources

10. Building an Electric Circuit
Closed Electric Circuit: The electrons are free to
flow or move throughout the circuit (ON).

11. Building an Electric Circuit
Open Electric Circuit: The electrons can not
move through the circuit because of a gap (OFF).

12. Switches
open (off) closed (on)
Symbols for switches

13. Closed Electric Circuit

14. Open Electric Circuit

15. Sample circuit