What does an ammeter measure?

An ammeter is specifically designed to measure electric current flowing through a circuit, which is expressed in amperes (A). When you connect an ammeter in series with a circuit, it allows the current to pass through it, providing a direct reading of the flow of electrons. This is fundamental in electrical science, as understanding current is essential for analyzing circuit behavior, ensuring that components operate within their specified current ratings, and diagnosing electrical issues.

In contrast, devices that measure voltage, such as voltmeters, operate differently by being connected in parallel to a circuit and do not measure current. Similarly, resistance is measured by ohmmeters, and power can be calculated using the product of voltage and current, but it is neither directly measured by an ammeter nor is it its primary function. Understanding the role of an ammeter reinforces concepts about the flow of electricity and circuit analysis, vital in electrical science and practice.