Florida Home Inspector Practice Test

What unit measures electrical current flow?

1. Volts

2. Ohms

3. Amperes

4. Watts

The correct answer is: Amperes

The unit that measures electrical current flow is Amperes. Current, which is the flow of electric charge in a circuit, is quantified in amperes. An ampere, often shortened to "amp," describes how many electrons are flowing across a conductive pathway per second. This is fundamental to understanding electrical systems, as it helps determine how much electricity is being used or transferred in a circuit. In contrast, volts measure electrical potential or voltage, which is the force that pushes electric charges through a circuit. Ohms measure electrical resistance, representing how much a material opposes the flow of current. Watts, on the other hand, quantify power, which is the rate at which electrical energy is transferred or converted, combining both current and voltage in its calculation (watts = volts x amperes). Understanding these distinctions is crucial for effective home inspections, particularly in evaluating electrical systems to ensure safety and compliance with codes.