Physics – 4.2.2 Electric current | e-Consult

Conventional current is defined as the flow of positive charge. Electron flow is the actual movement of electrons, which are negatively charged. Therefore, electron flow is from negative to positive, while conventional current is from positive to negative.

Circuit diagrams conventionally show current flowing from the positive terminal to the negative terminal. This convention is maintained for historical reasons, dating back to the early days of electrical circuits, before the discovery of electrons. It simplifies circuit analysis and allows engineers to easily trace the flow of current without needing to constantly consider the sign of the charge carriers. While it's important to remember the actual electron flow direction, using the conventional current direction simplifies circuit design and understanding.