Lesson 7: Circuit Schematics

Unit D Science 9
Section 2.3
Up until this point, we have looked at the 3
basic parts of a circuit (electrical source,
conductor, load) ; however, there are more
components that we could include.
A simple diagram that includes
or uses symbols to represent
parts of a circuit
 Symbols
Symbol Part of Description of the
Circuit Part

conductor Conducts electricity

through the circuit .

Provides a voltage
Cell
(potential
difference) for
circuit.
 Symbols
Symbol Part of Description of the
Circuit Part

Battery A combination of
cells.

Converts electrical
Lamp/Light
energy into light
energy.
 Symbols
Symbol Part of Description of the
Circuit Part
Controls the amount
resistor
of current in the
circuit.
Opens and closes
Switch the circuit,
therefore staring
and stopping the
 Symbols
Symbol Part of Description of the
Circuit Part

Ammeter Measures the

amount of current.

Voltmeter Measures the

amount of voltage.
 Symbols
Symbol Part of Description of the
Circuit Part

Rheostat Varies the amount

of resistance
(variable resistor).
Motor Converts electrical
energy into
mechanical energy.
 Symbols
Symbol Part of Description of the
Circuit Part

Fuse Melts if the

current in the
circuit is too high.
What can schematics look like?
Simple TV transmitter circuit
AM radio circuit
What do schematics look like in grade
9?
 Take Home Message
• Schematic = simple diagram that uses symbols

Homework:
• Read Section 3.1 for next class
• Read Section 3.1 for next class
• Activity: Building Circuits Virtually.
– Instructions:
– Click on the link:
https://phet.colorado.edu/en/simulation/circuit-construction-kit-dc-virtual-lab
– Note: Allow the java file to download first, before opening to run the circuit board
app.
– Play around building different circuits to see how all the different parts of a circuit
function.
• Assignment: Designing and Drawing Electrical Circuits Assignment (See
separate document)