What is electricity? What are its key values?
Electricity is a form of energy produced by the movement of tiny particles called electrons, which are found in the atoms of matter.
When these electrons move through a conductive material (such as copper wires), what we know as electric current is generated.
This phenomenon is not new — it exists in nature (like lightning during a storm) and has been harnessed by humanity for over a century to transform the way we live, work, and communicate.
To understand how electricity works in everyday life, it’s important to know some of its basic quantities. These help us measure, control, and use this energy safely and efficiently.
Voltage, measured in volts (V), is the force that drives electrons to move through an electrical circuit. It can be thought of like water pressure in a pipe: the higher the voltage, the easier it is for current to flow. In Spanish households, the standard voltage is 230 V, which is sufficient to power household appliances and everyday devices.
Electric current, measured in amperes (A), indicates how many electrons flow through a conductor per second. In the water analogy, this corresponds to the flow rate. A higher current means a stronger flow of electricity.
Resistance, measured in ohms (Ω), describes the opposition a material offers to the flow of current. Materials like copper have very low resistance and are used for wiring, while others like plastic have high resistance and are used as insulators.
Electrical power, measured in watts (W), indicates how much energy is consumed or generated at a given moment. It is calculated as voltage multiplied by current (Power = Voltage × Current).
For example, a 100-watt light bulb uses more energy per second than a 10-watt bulb.
When we talk about the total electricity consumption over a period of time, we refer to electrical energy, which is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh). This is the unit shown on electricity bills and corresponds to the consumption of 1000 watts over one hour.
In households, we use alternating current (AC), in which frequency also plays a role. This is measured in hertz (Hz) and indicates how many times per second the current changes direction. In Spain — as in many other European countries — the power grid operates at 50 Hz, meaning the current changes direction 50 times per second.
In Homes in Spain
In most households in Spain, the standard voltage is 230 volts. This means that all devices are designed to operate with this level of “electric current speed.”
For example, if a device uses 4 amperes, its power can be calculated as follows:
230 V × 4 A = 920 W
This means that the device consumes 920 watts when it is in operation.
The Law That Connects Everything: Ohm’s Law
One of the most fundamental relationships in electrical theory is Ohm’s Law, which links voltage, current, and resistance:
V = I × R
This means that voltage equals current multiplied by resistance.
This law is essential for designing and understanding any type of electrical circuit — from a simple doorbell to an industrial system.
Conclusion
Electricity is a powerful, invisible, and fundamental form of energy in the modern world.
When we understand its key quantities — voltage, current, resistance, power, and energy — we can use it more consciously and safely.
Whether you work in technology, are interested in science, or simply want to better understand how the world around you works,
these concepts give you a solid foundation to explore the fascinating world of electricity.
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