Electricity & heat
- A current passing through a resistor (or wire) results in the electrical transfer of energy
- As explained in Charge & current, current is the rate of flow of charge
- The temperature of a resistor increases due to the collisions of the free electrons within the wire
- Some of the energy is dissipated into the surroundings by heating
- This heating effect is utilised in many domestic contexts, including:
- Electric heaters
- Electric ovens
- Electric hob
- Toasters
- Kettles
Heating a pan on an electrical hob
The heating effect of current can be used for many applications such as electric hobs
Examiner Tip
Remember that a charge moving around an electrical circuit are an example of an electrical transfer pathway. If you are unsure of how to explain energy stores and transfers use the Energy stores & transfers revision note to help.
