What type of electrical current do amps specifically measure?

Amps, short for amperes, measure the flow of electric current, which can be either direct current (DC) or alternating current (AC). This means that amps quantify how much charge is flowing through a circuit over a specific period of time, regardless of the type of current.

In a direct current situation, the electric charge flows in one constant direction, while in an alternating current, the charge reverses direction periodically. The measurement remains the same; hence, amps are applicable to both forms of current. This versatility makes the understanding and significance of amps crucial for electricians and those working with various electrical systems, as it allows for a comprehensive grasp of current flow in different electrical contexts.