From where to where does electric charge typically flow?

Prepare for the NCEA Level 2 Physics Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Electric charge typically flows from high voltage to low voltage. This flow is driven by the electric potential difference, or voltage, between two points in a circuit. When there is a difference in voltage, electrons, which carry a negative charge, move towards the area of higher positive potential or lower negative potential, facilitating the flow of current. This movement continues until the voltage difference is equalized.

In most circuits, this principle underpins how electrical devices operate. It helps to understand that while conventional current flow is often described as moving from positive to negative, the actual flow of electrons is in the opposite direction, which is from negative to positive. Hence, it is crucial to focus on the concept of potential difference when discussing the flow of electric charge.

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