An amplifier is a device that takes a small input signal and creates a larger output signal. This makes it most similar to a step-up transformer which takes a smaller input voltage and creates a larger output voltage.

In contrast to the constant one-way flow of direct current, alternating current changes direction many times each second. Electricity is delivered from power stations to customers as AC because it provides a more efficient way to transport electricity over long distances.

A schematic is the proper name for a drawing of an electric or electronic circuit.

Splicing is permanently joining two wires together. Splicing can be done with screw-on connectors or wire crimps but the preferred method for splicing is soldering. Soldering takes the most effort but results in a connection that is electrically and mechanically identical to the original wire.

Semiconductors have valence shells that are exacly half full and can conduct electricity under some conditions but not others. This property makes them useful for the control of electrical current.