Parallel Circuits

Front

What is a parallel circuit?

Back

A parallel circuit is an electrical circuit where multiple paths are available for current to flow. Each component is connected across the same voltage source.

Front

What is the total resistance in a parallel circuit?

Back

The total resistance (R_total) in a parallel circuit can be calculated using the formula: 1/R_total = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3 + ... where R1, R2, R3, etc. are the resistances of the individual components.

Front

How does voltage behave in a parallel circuit?

Back

In a parallel circuit, the voltage across each component is the same and is equal to the voltage of the power source.

Front

What happens to the total current in a parallel circuit?

Back

The total current in a parallel circuit is the sum of the currents flowing through each parallel branch. It can be calculated using the formula: I_total = I1 + I2 + I3 + ... where I1, I2, I3, etc. are the currents through the individual branches.

Front

What is the effect of adding more resistors in parallel?

Back

Adding more resistors in parallel decreases the total resistance of the circuit, which increases the total current flowing from the power source.

Front

What is the formula for calculating total current in a parallel circuit?

Back

The total current (I_total) in a parallel circuit can be calculated using Ohm's Law: I_total = V/R_total, where V is the voltage across the circuit.

Front

What is the relationship between current and resistance in a parallel circuit?

Back

In a parallel circuit, as the resistance of a branch decreases, the current through that branch increases, assuming the voltage remains constant.

Front

How do you calculate the equivalent resistance of three resistors in parallel?

Back

To calculate the equivalent resistance (R_eq) of three resistors in parallel, use the formula: 1/R_eq = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3.

Front

What is the significance of Kirchhoff's Current Law in parallel circuits?

Back

Kirchhoff's Current Law states that the total current entering a junction must equal the total current leaving the junction, which is crucial for analyzing parallel circuits.

Front

What is a practical application of parallel circuits?

Back

Parallel circuits are commonly used in household wiring, allowing multiple devices to operate independently on the same voltage source.