Facebook
Google
GitHub
LinkedinBasic Electricity
Electrical Connections
13 questions By Tony R. Kuphaldt
-
Question 1 of 13
What, exactly, is necessary to establish electrical continuity between two wires? If I want to have an electric current flow out of one wire and into another, what must be done with those two wires to make that flow path complete?
Conversely, what things might prevent continuity from being established between two wires when they are supposed to electrically connect with one another?
Reveal answerThere must be metal-to-metal contact between the two wires in order to establish electrical continuity between the two. Anything preventing this clean contact between metal surfaces will inhibit continuity. This includes dirt, dust, oil, corrosion, misplaced insulation, and the like.
Notes:It might be helpful to show students what real pieces of wire look like, in order for them to better understand the nature of the problem. Most electrical wire is insulated in one form or another, and this insulation must not be removed (or “stripped”) in order to establish bare metal-to-metal contact.
-
Question 2 of 13
What type of electrical test would be the most direct means of checking the integrity of an electrical connection between two conductors? Explain your answer.
Reveal answerAn electrical resistance test.
Notes:Discuss with your students the ideal resistance of an electrical connection, regardless of type (soldered, terminal strip, wire wrap, wire nut, crimp connector, etc.), and under what conditions you would test the resistance of an electrical connection.
-
Question 3 of 13
What is the difference between a plug and a jack? What are these two devices used for? Draw the schematic diagram symbols for single-conductor plugs and jacks.
Reveal answerA “plug” is the male half of a temporary electrical connector, while the “jack” is the female half. Electrical connectors are used to make convenient connections between individual wires or sets of wires.
Notes:Be sure to inform your students that poor electrical connections, often with regard to plug-and-jack assemblies, are a very common source of failure in electrical and electronic systems.
