Series and Parallel Circuits Series circuit: A series circuit is a simple linear path for the flow of electric current. All components are connected in a...
Series circuit:
A series circuit is a simple linear path for the flow of electric current. All components are connected in a single loop, and the current flows through each component in turn.
Parallel circuit:
A parallel circuit is a configuration where multiple components are connected in multiple loops. The current can divide itself among the components, and each component experiences a different current density.
Differences between series and parallel circuits:
| Feature | Series | Parallel |
|---|---|---|
| Number of components | 1 | Multiple |
| Current flow | Flows through each component in turn | Can divide itself among components |
| Voltage | Total voltage is the same as the individual component voltages | Each component has the same voltage |
| Current | Total current is equal to the sum of the individual component currents | Current is divided among the components |
| Power | Total power is the same as the individual component powers | Total power is the same as the individual component powers |
Examples:
Series: A light bulb connected to a battery, a switch, and a resistor in a circuit.
Parallel: A parallel circuit with two light bulbs connected in parallel to a single power source.
Key takeaways:
Series circuit: Current flows through each component in turn, and the total voltage is the same as the individual component voltages.
Parallel circuit: The current can divide itself among the components, and each component experiences a different current density