What is the definition of amperage?

Amperage is defined as the flow of electric charge in a circuit, which is measured in amperes (A). This concept is central to understanding electrical circuits, as it refers to how much electric current is passing through a conductor at any given moment. A higher amperage indicates more electrons are flowing, which can affect the operation of electrical devices and the design of electrical systems.

When assessing amperage, it is essential to consider how it relates to other electrical parameters, such as voltage and resistance, according to Ohm's Law (V = I × R). This law shows how voltage (V) is the product of current (I, which is amperage) and resistance (R), highlighting amperage's role as a measure of current flow rather than voltage or resistance.

In the context of the other choices, voltage refers to the potential difference that drives current through a circuit; thus, it is not the same as amperage. Electrical resistance is a measure of how much a material opposes the flow of current and is measured in ohms. The energy consumed by electrical devices is usually quantified in watts, which accounts for both voltage and current, but it does not directly define amperage.