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Electricity for Boys
Electricity for Boys

Chapter XVI · Chapter 16

Chapter 16 of Electricity for Boys is here in full — 88 sentences across 18 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

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Context Illustration Reading 1/17 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.
This direct current is a natural one if generated by a cell.
ALTERNATING CURRENT.--On the other hand, the natural current generated by a dynamo is alternating in its character--that is, it is not a direct, steady flow in one direction, but, instead, it flows for an instant in one direction, then in the other direction, and so on.
A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.
It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.
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AI-generated narration by OpenAI · Slow US English
LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
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A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

Electricity for Boys

Chapter XVI · Chapter 16

Chapter 16 of Electricity for Boys is here in full — 88 sentences across 18 reading sections, with audio for every sentence and word.

Reading 1/17 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.
Line 2
This direct current is a natural one if generated by a cell.
/ðɪs dərˈekt ˈkɜːrənt ɪz ə ˈnætʃərəl wʌn ɪf ˈdʒenəreɪtəd baɪ ə sel/
Line 3
ALTERNATING CURRENT.--On the other hand, the natural current generated by a dynamo is alternating in its character--that is, it is not a direct, steady flow in one direction, but, instead, it flows for an instant in one direction, then in the other direction, and so on.
Line 4
A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.
Line 5
It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.
/ɪt ɪz ə ˈdɪfəkəlt ˈmætər tuː ɪkˈspleɪn ðə ˈprɪnsəpəl ənd ˌɑːpərˈeɪʃən ʌv ˈɔːltərneɪtɪŋ ˈkɜːrənt məˈʃiːnz wɪˈθaʊt bɪˈkʌmɪŋ ɪn ə ˈmeʒər tuː ˈteknɪkəl fɔːr ðə ˈpɜːrpəsəz ʌv ðɪs bʊk bʌt ɪt ɪz ˌɪmˈpɔːrtənt tuː noʊ ðə ˌfʌndəˈmentəlz ˌɪnˈvɑːlvd soʊ ðæt ðə ˌɑːpərˈeɪʃən ənd ˈjuːsəz ʌv ˈsɜːrtən ˌæpərˈætəs laɪk ðə ˈtʃoʊ.kɪŋ kɔɪl trænˈsfɔːrmərz ˈrektəfaɪərz ənd kənˈvɜːrtərz meɪ biː ɪkˈspleɪnd/

Learner Dictionary

These definitions explain words found in the current reading and keep every example grounded in its original sentence.

Oxford-style entry order: headword, part of speech, US IPA, concise definition, contextual example, and audio.

alternating adjective US /ˈɔːltərneɪtɪŋ/

(of a current) reversing direction

From this reading “ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.”

converters noun US /kənˈvɜːrtərz/

plural of “converter” — a device for changing one substance or form or state into another

From this reading “ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.”

dynamo noun US /ˈdaɪnəmoʊ/

generator consisting of a coil (the armature) that rotates between the poles of an electromagnet (the field magnet) causing a current to flow in the armature

From this reading “ALTERNATING CURRENT.--On the other hand, the natural current generated by a dynamo is alternating in its character--that is, it is not a direct, steady flow in one direction, but, instead, it flows for an instant in one direction, then in the other direction, and so on.”

fundamentals noun US /ˌfʌndəˈmentəlz/

principles from which other truths can be derived

From this reading “It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.”

generated verb US /ˈdʒenəreɪtəd/

past form of “generate” — bring into existence

From this reading “ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.”

generating verb US /ˈdʒenəreɪtɪŋ/

-ing form of “generate” — bring into existence

From this reading “A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.”

rectifiers noun US /ˈrektəfaɪərz/

plural of “rectifier” — electrical device that transforms alternating into direct current

From this reading “ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.”

transformers noun US /trænˈsfɔːrmərz/

plural of “transformer” — an electrical device by which alternating current of one voltage is changed to another voltage

From this reading “ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.”

All words in this reading · 94

Every word in these five lines is listed here, and every one of them can be played on its own.

Dictionary details are shown only when verified; these are not licensed Oxford entries.

adeterminerUS /ə/

used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

alongprepositionUS /əˈlɔːŋ/

following the length of something from one end toward the other

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

ALTERNATINGadjectiveUS /ˈɔːltərneɪtɪŋ/

(of a current) reversing direction

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

andeterminerUS /æn/

the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENT.--On the other hand, the natural current generated by a dynamo is alternating in its character--that is, it is not a direct, steady flow in one direction, but, instead, it flows for an instant in one direction, then in the other direction, and so on.

ANDconjunctionUS /ənd/

used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

apparatusnounUS /ˌæpərˈætəs/

equipment designed to serve a specific function

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

at the same time that; because; in the way that

From this reading A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.

assumedadjectiveUS /əˈsuːmd/

adopted in order to deceive

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

beauxiliary verbUS /biː/

used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

becomingadjectiveUS /bɪˈkʌmɪŋ/

according with custom or propriety

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

booknounUS /bʊk/

a written work or composition that has been published (printed on pages bound together)

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

butconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENT.--On the other hand, the natural current generated by a dynamo is alternating in its character--that is, it is not a direct, steady flow in one direction, but, instead, it flows for an instant in one direction, then in the other direction, and so on.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

calledverbUS /kɔːld/

past form of “call” — assign a specified (usually proper) proper name to

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

cellnounUS /sel/

A small stone room in a prison where an inmate is locked behind iron bars.

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

certainadjectiveUS /ˈsɜːrtən/

definite but not specified or identified

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

ChapternounUS /ˈtʃæptər/

a subdivision of a written work; usually numbered and titled

From this reading A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.

characternounUS /ˈkerɪktər/

an imaginary person represented in a work of fiction (play or film or story)

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENT.--On the other hand, the natural current generated by a dynamo is alternating in its character--that is, it is not a direct, steady flow in one direction, but, instead, it flows for an instant in one direction, then in the other direction, and so on.

CHOKINGadjectiveUS /ˈtʃoʊ.kɪŋ/

Causing difficulty in breathing.

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

coilnounUS /kɔɪl/

a structure consisting of something wound in a continuous series of loops

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

COILSnounUS /kɔɪlz/

plural of “coil” — a structure consisting of something wound in a continuous series of loops

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

continuousadjectiveUS /kənˈtɪnjuːəs/

continuing in time or space without interruption

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

CONVERTERSnounUS /kənˈvɜːrtərz/

plural of “converter” — a device for changing one substance or form or state into another

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

CURRENTnounUS /ˈkɜːrənt/

a flow of electricity through a conductor

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

CURRENTSnounUS /ˈkɜːrənts/

plural of “current” — a flow of electricity through a conductor

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

difficultadjectiveUS /ˈdɪfəkəlt/

not easy; requiring great physical or mental effort to accomplish or comprehend or endure

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

DIRECTverbUS /dərˈekt/

command with authority

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

direct-current

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.

directionnounUS /dərˈekʃən/

a line leading to a place or point

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

dynamonounUS /ˈdaɪnəmoʊ/

generator consisting of a coil (the armature) that rotates between the poles of an electromagnet (the field magnet) causing a current to flow in the armature

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENT.--On the other hand, the natural current generated by a dynamo is alternating in its character--that is, it is not a direct, steady flow in one direction, but, instead, it flows for an instant in one direction, then in the other direction, and so on.

easieradjectiveUS /ˈiːziər/

comparative of “easy” — posing no difficulty; requiring little effort

From this reading A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.

electricadjectiveUS /ɪˈlektrɪk/

using or providing or producing or transmitting or operated by electricity

From this reading A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.

electricitynounUS /ɪˌlekˈtrɪsəti/

a physical phenomenon associated with stationary or moving electrons and protons

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

explainverbUS /ɪkˈspleɪn/

make plain and comprehensible

From this reading A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.

explainedverbUS /ɪkˈspleɪnd/

past form of “explain” — make plain and comprehensible

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

flownounUS /floʊ/

the motion characteristic of fluids (liquids or gases)

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

flowsnounUS /floʊz/

plural of “flow” — the motion characteristic of fluids (liquids or gases)

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENT.--On the other hand, the natural current generated by a dynamo is alternating in its character--that is, it is not a direct, steady flow in one direction, but, instead, it flows for an instant in one direction, then in the other direction, and so on.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENT.--On the other hand, the natural current generated by a dynamo is alternating in its character--that is, it is not a direct, steady flow in one direction, but, instead, it flows for an instant in one direction, then in the other direction, and so on.

fundamentalsnounUS /ˌfʌndəˈmentəlz/

principles from which other truths can be derived

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

generatedverbUS /ˈdʒenəreɪtəd/

past form of “generate” — bring into existence

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

generatingverbUS /ˈdʒenəreɪtɪŋ/

-ing form of “generate” — bring into existence

From this reading A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.

handnounUS /hænd/

the (prehensile) extremity of the superior limb

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENT.--On the other hand, the natural current generated by a dynamo is alternating in its character--that is, it is not a direct, steady flow in one direction, but, instead, it flows for an instant in one direction, then in the other direction, and so on.

haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.

henceadverbUS /hens/

for this reason

From this reading A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.

ifconjunctionUS /ɪf/

on condition that; in the event that

From this reading This direct current is a natural one if generated by a cell.

illustratedverbUS /ˈɪləstreɪtəd/

past form of “illustrate” — clarify by giving an example of

From this reading A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.

importantadjectiveUS /ˌɪmˈpɔːrtənt/

of great significance or value

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

inside something, or within a place, period, or state

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

instantnounUS /ˈɪnstənt/

a very short time (as the time it takes the eye to blink or the heart to beat)

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENT.--On the other hand, the natural current generated by a dynamo is alternating in its character--that is, it is not a direct, steady flow in one direction, but, instead, it flows for an instant in one direction, then in the other direction, and so on.

insteadadverbUS /ˌɪnˈsted/

in place of, or as an alternative to

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENT.--On the other hand, the natural current generated by a dynamo is alternating in its character--that is, it is not a direct, steady flow in one direction, but, instead, it flows for an instant in one direction, then in the other direction, and so on.

involvedadjectiveUS /ˌɪnˈvɑːlvd/

connected by participation or association or use

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

isauxiliary verbUS /ɪz/

the form of “be” used with he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

itpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

itsdeterminerUS /ɪts/

belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENT.--On the other hand, the natural current generated by a dynamo is alternating in its character--that is, it is not a direct, steady flow in one direction, but, instead, it flows for an instant in one direction, then in the other direction, and so on.

IVnoun

the cardinal number that is the sum of three and one

From this reading A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.

knowverbUS /noʊ/

be cognizant or aware of a fact or a specific piece of information; possess knowledge or information about

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

likeverbUS /laɪk/

prefer or wish to do something

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

machinesnounUS /məˈʃiːnz/

plural of “machine” — any mechanical or electrical device that transmits or modifies energy to perform or assist in the performance of human tasks

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

matternounUS /ˈmætər/

a vaguely specified concern

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

maymodal verbUS /meɪ/

used to say something is possible, or to give permission

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

measurenounUS /ˈmeʒər/

any maneuver made as part of progress toward a goal

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

methodnounUS /ˈmeθəd/

a way of doing something, especially a systematic way; implies an orderly logical arrangement (usually in steps)

From this reading A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.

moveverbUS /muːv/

change location; move, travel, or proceed, also metaphorically

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

muchadverbUS /mʌtʃ/

to a great degree or extent

From this reading A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.

naturaladjectiveUS /ˈnætʃərəl/

in accordance with nature; relating to or concerning nature

From this reading This direct current is a natural one if generated by a cell.

notadverbUS /nɑːt/

used to make a word, phrase, or sentence negative

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENT.--On the other hand, the natural current generated by a dynamo is alternating in its character--that is, it is not a direct, steady flow in one direction, but, instead, it flows for an instant in one direction, then in the other direction, and so on.

ofprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

OnprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENT.--On the other hand, the natural current generated by a dynamo is alternating in its character--that is, it is not a direct, steady flow in one direction, but, instead, it flows for an instant in one direction, then in the other direction, and so on.

onepronounUS /wʌn/

used to mean any person in general, including the speaker

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

operationnounUS /ˌɑːpərˈeɪʃən/

the state of being in effect or being operative

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

otheradjectiveUS /ˈʌðər/

not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENT.--On the other hand, the natural current generated by a dynamo is alternating in its character--that is, it is not a direct, steady flow in one direction, but, instead, it flows for an instant in one direction, then in the other direction, and so on.

principlenounUS /ˈprɪnsəpəl/

a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

purposesnounUS /ˈpɜːrpəsəz/

plural of “purpose” — an anticipated outcome that is intended or that guides your planned actions

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

RECTIFIERSnounUS /ˈrektəfaɪərz/

plural of “rectifier” — electrical device that transforms alternating into direct current

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

showverbUS /ʃoʊ/

give an exhibition of to an interested audience

From this reading A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.

shownverbUS /ʃoʊn/

inflected form of “show” — give an exhibition of to an interested audience

From this reading A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.

soconjunctionUS /soʊ/

for that reason; with the result that

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENT.--On the other hand, the natural current generated by a dynamo is alternating in its character--that is, it is not a direct, steady flow in one direction, but, instead, it flows for an instant in one direction, then in the other direction, and so on.

steadyverbUS /ˈstedi/

make steady

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

suchdeterminerUS /sʌtʃ/

of the kind already mentioned

From this reading A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.

technicaladjectiveUS /ˈteknɪkəl/

of or relating to technique or proficiency in a practical skill

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENT.--On the other hand, the natural current generated by a dynamo is alternating in its character--that is, it is not a direct, steady flow in one direction, but, instead, it flows for an instant in one direction, then in the other direction, and so on.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

thenadverbUS /ðen/

subsequently or soon afterward (often used as sentence connectors)

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENT.--On the other hand, the natural current generated by a dynamo is alternating in its character--that is, it is not a direct, steady flow in one direction, but, instead, it flows for an instant in one direction, then in the other direction, and so on.

thirdnounUS /θɜːrd/

one of three equal parts of a divisible whole

From this reading A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.

ThisdeterminerUS /ðɪs/

used for a person or thing that is near, or that has just been mentioned

From this reading This direct current is a natural one if generated by a cell.

toparticleUS /tuː/

used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

tooadverbUS /tuː/

to a degree exceeding normal or proper limits

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

TRANSFORMERSnounUS /trænˈsfɔːrmərz/

plural of “transformer” — an electrical device by which alternating current of one voltage is changed to another voltage

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

usedadjectiveUS /juːzd/

employed in accomplishing something

From this reading A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.

usesnounUS /ˈjuːsəz/

plural of “use” — the act of using

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

wepronounUS /wiː/

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading A direct-current dynamo such as we have shown in Chapter IV, is much easier to explain, hence it is illustrated to show the third method used in generating an electric current.

WhenconjunctionUS /wen/

at the time that

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

wirenounUS /ˈwaɪər/

ligament made of metal and used to fasten things or make cages or fences etc

From this reading ALTERNATING CURRENTS, CHOKING COILS, TRANSFORMERS, CONVERTERS AND RECTIFIERS DIRECT CURRENT.--When a current of electricity is generated by a cell, it is assumed to move along the wire in one direction, in a steady, continuous flow, and is called a _direct_ current.

withoutprepositionUS /wɪˈθaʊt/

not having, not using, or not accompanied by

From this reading It is a difficult matter to explain the principle and operation of alternating current machines, without becoming, in a measure, too technical for the purposes of this book, but it is important to know the fundamentals involved, so that the operation and uses of certain apparatus, like the choking coil, transformers, rectifiers and converters, may be explained.

Chapter 16 of Electricity for Boys by James Slough Zerbe holds 88 sentences, grouped into 18 reading sections of at most 5 sentences. The text is the source edition, unabridged, and the chapter records which sentences cover which part of the work so that nothing is dropped. Every word can be tapped for its pronunciation and dictionary entry.

What does chapter 16 of Electricity for Boys contain?

Chapter 16 holds 88 sentences of Electricity for Boys, unabridged, divided into 18 reading sections.

This page carries chapter 16 of Electricity for Boys by James Slough Zerbe exactly as it stands in the source edition, without abridgement. It runs to 88 sentences, grouped into 18 sections of at most 5 sentences so that a reader can take the chapter in steady, finishable pieces. The chapter also stores a coverage record mapping every one of its sentences to a part of the work, which is how the edition demonstrates that no line was dropped.

How do I study chapter 16 of Electricity for Boys?

Work through the 18 sections in order, replaying any sentence and tapping unfamiliar words for their entries.

Each of the 18 sections in this chapter is short enough to read once, hear once, and then re-read with the vocabulary in view. Tapping a word plays it alone and opens its dictionary entry with IPA, part of speech and meaning, so the reader is never forced to guess a pronunciation from spelling. Working section by section keeps a long chapter from becoming an undifferentiated wall of text, which is the usual reason a reader abandons a work of this period.

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Audio covers the whole chapter: any sentence can be played, and any single word within it can be played on its own. The voice uses United States English. For a work of this period that matters, because spelling is an unreliable guide to pronunciation for vocabulary that has fallen out of daily use, and a learner who guesses wrong tends to keep the error. Hearing the word in its own sentence, and then alone, settles it.

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Common questions about reading Electricity for Boys by James Slough Zerbe on this page, its source edition and its audio.

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Words and structures a reader meets early in Electricity for Boys, each tappable for pronunciation and meaning.

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