Circuit Symbols
Science: KS3, topic 3.4.1
Circuit Symbols
There are many electrical components that can be placed in a circuit. The components can be represented by symbols.
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Common components
- Voltmeter
- The voltmeter measures the potential difference (V).
- Ammeter
- The ammeter measures the current (A).
Open and closed switch
- Open switch
- Current cannot flow.
- Closed switch
- Current is able to flow.
The cell
- A cell
- The cell provides the potential difference.
- The cell is commonly called a battery.
Battery and lamp
- A battery
- The battery is more than one cell.
- Lamp
- If the circuit is complete, the lamp will light up.
The fuse
- Fuse
- If the current is too high, the fuse will ‘blow’.
Test yourself on Circuit Symbols
What is the symbol for a voltmeter?
Which of these describes a fuse?
Select the correct statement for each pair
A fuse blows because the current in a circuit becomes too high. What effect does this have on the current in the circuit?