What is the heating effect produced by electric current?

The heating effect of electric current refers to the phenomenon where a conductor produces heat when electric current flows through it.

This happens because the conductor offers resistance to the flow of electrons, and the electrical energy is converted into heat energy during this process.

The amount of heat produced depends on:

• The current (I) flowing through the conductor
• The resistance (R) of the material
• The time (t) for which current flows

This relationship is given by Joule’s Law of Heating:
H = I²RT

The heating effect is widely used in appliances like heaters, electric irons, toasters, and kettles, where heat generation is required.