What is a load in electrical terms?

In electrical terms, a load refers to any device or component that consumes electrical power or energy from a source, thus "using" voltage in the process. For example, light bulbs, motors, and heaters are considered loads because they require electrical current to perform their functions, which involves the conversion of electrical energy to other forms of energy, such as light, heat, or mechanical energy.

Understanding the nature of a load is crucial for designing electrical circuits, as it affects the current flow, voltage drop, and overall system performance. Loads can vary in magnitude and complexity, and they directly impact how much power is drawn from the electrical supply. This is why stating that a load is something that uses voltage accurately captures its defining characteristic within electrical systems.