NABCEP Technical Sales Exam 2026 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

In the hydraulic analogy, current in an electrical circuit is represented as flow. This analogy draws parallels between the behavior of fluids in pipes and the flow of electric current in a circuit. In this context, flow represents the movement of electric charge, similar to how water moves through a pipe.

Just as increased pressure in a hydraulic system drives a greater flow of water, a higher voltage in an electrical circuit results in more current flowing. Therefore, the concept of flow effectively captures the essence of current—the rate at which charge moves. This analogy helps to visualize electrical phenomena using concepts that are easier to grasp, particularly for those familiar with fluid dynamics.

In contrast, pressure corresponds more closely to voltage, as it is the driving force that pushes the flow through the system. Resistance in the hydraulic analogy would be analogous to the size of the pipe or any obstacles the fluid faces, which impedes flow. Understanding these relationships clarifies the workings of electrical circuits through the lens of familiar hydraulic concepts.