Electrician's Licensing Practice Exam

How is current measured?

1. In volts

2. In ohms

3. In amperes

4. In watts

The correct answer is: In amperes

Current is measured in amperes, which is a fundamental unit of measurement in the field of electricity. The term "amperes," often shortened to "amps," quantifies the flow of electric charge in a circuit. One ampere is defined as one coulomb of charge passing through a given point in one second. This measurement is crucial for electricians and engineers as it directly relates to the amount of electricity that flows in a circuit, impacting the design, safety, and functionality of electrical systems. Understanding current measurement is vital for ensuring circuits are properly rated to handle the amounts of current that flow through them, thus preventing overheating, electrical fires, and equipment damage. This practical knowledge is foundational for performing calculations and for the safe installation and maintenance of electrical systems.