Measuring electric current in series and parallel circuits
A device called an ammeter is used to measure current.
Some types of ammeter have a pointer on a dial, but most modern ammeters have a digital display.
To measure the current flowing through a component in a circuit, you must connect the ammeter in series with it.
Remember, electric current is measured in amperes, or amps for short.
The symbol for amperes is A
A circuit with an ammeter connected in two different places, both in series with the cell and lamp
Key points
When measuring current:
- current is measured in amperes, A;
- the current is measured using an ammeter;
- the ammeter must be connected in series.