Electric circuits, volts amps watts and ohms

Basic electrical theory every Restarter should know.

(This page is work in progress - comments and update suggestions to the Discussion page only for now please.)

Summary

A knowledge of basic electrical theory is essential for anything more than purely mechanical repairs, and will greatly help in diagnosing faults and working safely.

Electrical Circuits - doing the rounds

Opposite charges attract, like charges repel.

A simple electrical circuit.

Positive and negative charge. Opposite charges attract, like charges repel (pic), hence an open circuit results in a pile-up. A simple circuit - battery, switch, bulb (pic)

Volts - the pressure is on

High pressure - Jet d'Deau, Geneva.

Low pressure - pic: thumb over inverted bottle of water?

High pressure - pic: Geneva Jet d'Eau.

Amps - go with the flow

Small flow - pic: dripping tap?

Large flow - pic: Amazon?

Watts - feel the power

Volts x Amps - large voltage or large current.

Illustrations?

Ohms - resistance isn't futile

Volts per amp

Illustration?

Safety

Consider whether your page should include a specific section on safety, if for example it deals with mains-powered equipment or high voltages, or if special care is required in handling hot or sharp tools, or hazardous substances.

External links

• External links as bullet points