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Learn the basics

How Does a Switch Work?

A switch controls whether electricity has a complete path to follow.

Think of it like a valve controlling water in a pipe.

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Valve open — water flows

See what happens when the water path is clear.

An open valve allowing water to flow from a higher tank into a lower basin.

When the valve is open, the path is clear and water can flow from the higher tank to the lower basin.

Open valve → water flows

How a switch works in simple words

  • A valve controls whether water has a clear path.
  • A switch controls whether an electrical path is complete.
  • Closed switch → path complete → bulb ON.
  • Open switch → path broken → bulb OFF.

A switch works by opening or closing a path.