Important Questions for Class 7 Science

Chapter 10 - Electric Current and Its Effects

1. What is an electric circuit?

An electric circuit is a closed path through which electric current flows from a power source,
such as a battery, through connected components and back to the source. The circuit allows
electricity to power devices like bulbs, fans, or motors. The main components of a simple
circuit include a power source, connecting wires, and devices that use electricity, creating a
loop for continuous current flow.

2. Explain the role of a switch in an electric circuit.

A switch controls the flow of electric current in a circuit. When the switch is "on," it
completes the circuit, allowing current to pass through and power devices. When the switch
is "off," it breaks the circuit, stopping the current and turning off any connected devices. This
simple mechanism helps control the use of electricity efficiently and safely.

3. What is electric current?

Electric current is the flow of electric charge through a conductor, usually carried by
electrons moving through a wire. It is measured in amperes (A) and represents the amount of
charge passing a point in the circuit per second. Electric current is essential for operating
electrical devices, from light bulbs to complex machines, by providing the energy required
for their operation.

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4. What happens when an electric current passes through a bulb?
When electric current flows through a bulb, it passes through a thin filament made of
tungsten, which offers resistance to the flow of current. This resistance causes the filament to
heat up, producing light and heat. This effect of producing light due to electric current is
known as the heating effect of current, and it is the basic principle behind incandescent
bulbs.

5. Describe the heating effect of electric current.

The heating effect of electric current occurs when current flows through a conductor,
generating heat due to the resistance offered by the conductor. The more the resistance, the
more heat produced. This effect is used in devices like electric heaters, irons, and toasters,
where heat is needed for their functioning. It is also the reason why wires heat up when
carrying too much current.

6. What is the magnetic effect of electric current?

The magnetic effect of electric current is the phenomenon where a current passing through a
conductor creates a magnetic field around it. This effect can be observed by placing a
compass near a current-carrying wire; the compass needle will deflect, indicating a magnetic
field. This principle is used in electromagnets, electric motors, and generators, where
magnetic fields are needed.

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7. How does an electromagnet work?
An electromagnet is created by wrapping a coil of wire around an iron core and passing an
electric current through the coil. The current generates a magnetic field, which magnetises
the iron core, making it act as a magnet. Unlike permanent magnets, electromagnets can be
turned on or off with the electric current, making them useful in various applications like
cranes, electric bells, and door locks.

8. What are some uses of electromagnets?

Electromagnets are widely used due to their controllable magnetic field. They are used in
cranes for lifting heavy metallic objects, in electric bells and buzzers to create sound, and in
motors for generating rotational motion. They are also used in medical devices like MRI
machines, where strong, temporary magnetic fields are essential.

9. Explain the function of an electric fuse.

An electric fuse is a safety device that protects electrical circuits from excessive current. It
consists of a thin wire with a low melting point that melts and breaks the circuit if the current
exceeds a safe level. This prevents overheating and potential fires by stopping the flow of
electricity and safeguarding appliances and users from damage or injury.

10. Why does the fuse wire melt when there is an excess current?
The fuse wire melts due to its low melting point material. When excess current flows through
the fuse, it generates heat due to resistance in the wire.

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The heat quickly builds up, causing the fuse wire to melt and break the circuit, which stops
the flow of electricity and protects the appliances from further damage.

11. Describe how a simple electric circuit is constructed.

A simple electric circuit is constructed with a power source like a battery, connecting wires,
and a load like a bulb. The wires are connected from the battery terminals to the bulb,
completing the loop. When connected, the electric current flows from the positive terminal
of the battery, through the wires, lighting the bulb, and returns to the negative terminal,
forming a closed circuit.

12. How is the electric current measured, and what is its unit?
Electric current is measured using an ammeter, an instrument that calculates the flow of
current in amperes (A). It is connected in series with other components in the circuit to
measure the amount of charge passing through the circuit per second. Amperes, the SI unit of
current, indicate the rate of electric flow.

13. What happens to a bulb if the circuit is broken?

If the circuit is broken, it is incomplete, and electric current cannot flow through it. As a
result, the bulb will not light up because there is no current passing through its filament. A
broken circuit can occur if there is a loose connection, a cut wire, or an open switch in the
circuit.

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14. What is a conductor, and why is it important in electric circuits?
A conductor is a material that allows electric current to flow through it easily, such as metals
like copper and aluminium. Conductors are essential in electric circuits as they provide a
path for current to travel from one component to another, making it possible for devices to
operate.

15. Why do electric appliances like irons and heaters get warm?
Electric appliances like irons and heaters get warm due to the heating effect of electric
current. As electric current flows through their heating elements, resistance generates heat,
warming up the appliance. This heat is then used for tasks like ironing clothes or warming up
a room.

16. What are insulators, and why are they used in electrical devices?
Insulators are materials that do not allow electric current to pass through them, like rubber,
plastic, or wood. They are used in electrical devices to cover wires and prevent accidental
electric shocks. Insulators provide safety by keeping current confined to the intended path
within the circuit.

17. Explain how an electric bell works.

An electric bell works by using an electromagnet. When the switch is pressed, current flows
through the coil, magnetising an iron strip that pulls a hammer to hit the bell. This breaks the
circuit, and the hammer returns to its original position, allowing the process to repeat,
creating a continuous ringing sound.

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18. Why are circuit breakers used in modern electrical systems?
Circuit breakers are used to automatically stop the flow of current when it exceeds safe
limits. They act like reusable fuses and help prevent damage from overloading, short circuits,
or power surges by breaking the circuit. Unlike fuses, circuit breakers can be reset after
tripping, making them more convenient.

19. How does the direction of current flow affect the magnetic field in a wire?
The direction of electric current determines the direction of the magnetic field around the
wire. When the current’s direction is reversed, the magnetic field’s direction also reverses.
This property is used in electric motors and other devices to control motion.

20. What is the role of an ammeter in a circuit?

An ammeter measures the amount of electric current flowing through a circuit. It is
connected in series with other components and displays the current in amperes, helping to
monitor and control the circuit’s performance.

21. How does current cause a wire to become an electromagnet?

When electric current passes through a coil of wire wrapped around an iron core, it generates
a magnetic field, turning the iron core into a magnet. This temporary magnet is called an
electromagnet and can be turned on or off by controlling the current.

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22. What safety measures should be followed when using electric appliances?
Safety measures include using insulated tools, keeping water away from appliances, not
overloading sockets, and using fuses or circuit breakers. These practices reduce the risk of
electric shocks, fires, or damage to devices and help ensure the safe use of electricity.

23. How can the magnetic effect of current be demonstrated only?

The magnetic effect of current can be demonstrated by passing current through a wire placed
near a compass. The compass needle will deflect due to the magnetic field created by the
current, showing that electric current can produce magnetism.

24. Why are electric circuits important for appliances to work?

Electric circuits allow electric current to flow from a power source to the appliance, enabling
it to operate. A complete circuit provides a continuous path for the current, while a broken
circuit will stop the current and prevent the appliance from working.

25. Describe a real-life use of the heating effect of electric current.

The heating effect of electric current is used in devices like electric stoves and heaters. When
current flows through their heating elements, it produces heat, which can then be used for
cooking or warming a space. This effect is also found in toasters, irons, and kettles.

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