Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 3
DIRECT CURRENT
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DIRECT CURRENT
Download the Lessonotes Mobile Ghana app for faster lesson access on Android and iPhone.
Subject: Physics
Class: SHS 3
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 3
Grade code: 3.3.1.LI.1
Strand code: 3
Sub-strand code: 1
Content standard code: 3.3.1.CS.2
Indicator code: 3.3.1.LI.1
Theme: ELECTRIC FIELD, MAGNETIC FIELD AND ELECTRONICS
Subtheme: DIRECT CURRENT
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This lesson introduces the fundamental principles of direct current (DC) electricity, the invisible force that powers so much of our daily lives in Ghana. From charging our mobile phones with power banks and solar chargers to starting a car or using a flashlight ("torchlight") during a power outage ("dumsor"), understanding DC circuits is essential. We will explore the components of a simple circuit, define the key quantities that govern the flow of electricity, and learn how they are all mathematically related. This knowledge forms the foundation for understanding almost all electronic devices.
This section breaks down the core ideas you need to master. We will build our understanding step-by-step. A. The Basic Components of a DC Circuit
A simple DC circuit is like a complete path for electricity to travel. It must have at least these four parts: Source: This is the provider of electrical energy. In DC circuits, this is usually a battery (like the ones in a remote control) or a solar cell. The source provides the "push" to make charges move. Load: This is the device that uses the electrical energy and converts it into another form (light, heat, sound, motion). Examples include a light bulb, a resistor, or your phone's charging circuit. Conducting Wires: These are the pathways for the electricity, typically made of copper. They connect the source to the load. Switch (or Key): This is a device that can open or close the circuit, controlling the flow of electricity.
We can describe the state of a circuit as: Closed Circuit: An unbroken, complete path for current to flow. The switch is ON, and the load works. Open Circuit: A broken path. The switch is OFF, and no current can flow.
Simple Circuit Diagram: