When voltage is applied to a conductor, what happens to the free electrons?

When voltage is applied to a conductor, free electrons experience an electric field that causes them to flow, creating an electric current. Specifically, they flow in one direction, aligning with the direction of the applied voltage. This directional flow is fundamental to how electrical circuits operate, as it allows for the transmission of electrical energy.

As the electrons gain energy from the applied voltage, they accelerate toward the positively charged terminal, effectively moving through the conductor. This movement is what enables the circuit to perform work, whether that be powering a light bulb or running an electric motor. Understanding this movement of electrons is crucial for anyone working with electrical systems, as it forms the basis of circuit design and analysis.