02. Electricity, Circuits & Powering Robots

🔍 Two Main Types of Electricity

1. Static Electricity

   • This happens when electric charges build up on the surface of an object.

   • Example: Rub a balloon on your hair, and your hair stands up — that’s static electricity.

2. Current Electricity

   • This is the flow of electric charge through wires and circuits.

   • It’s the kind of electricity that powers your home appliances and robots.

💧 Water Pipe Analogy

Think of electricity like water:

• Voltage is the water pressure.

• Current is the flow of water.

• Wires are like pipes.

  When you turn on a switch, it’s like opening a tap — electricity flows through the wires just like water flows through pipes.

🔄 What is a Circuit?

A circuit is a complete path through which electricity flows. It usually includes:

• A power source (like a battery)

• Wires to carry the electricity

• A load (like a bulb or motor) that uses the electricity

• A switch to open or close the circuit

If any part is missing or disconnected, the electricity won’t flow, and the device won’t work.

🧠 Fun Fact

Did you know? Your brain also uses tiny electrical signals to send messages. Every time you move your hand or blink your eyes, a small electric impulse is involved. So, in a way, you are already electric! ⚡

🧪 Mini Activity

Try this at home:

1. Blow up a balloon and rub it on your hair.

2. Bring it near small paper bits.

Watch how the balloon pulls the paper — this is static electricity in action!