Series and Parallel Circuits

Front

What is a series circuit?

Back

A series circuit is a type of electrical circuit in which the components are connected end-to-end, so that the current flows through each component in turn. If one component fails, the entire circuit is interrupted.

Front

What is a parallel circuit?

Back

A parallel circuit is a type of electrical circuit in which the components are connected across common points or junctions, providing multiple paths for the current to flow. If one component fails, the current can still flow through other paths.

Front

What happens to the total resistance in a series circuit when more resistors are added?

Back

In a series circuit, the total resistance increases as more resistors are added. The total resistance (R_total) is the sum of all individual resistances (R_total = R1 + R2 + R3 + ...).

Tags

NGSS.MS-PS2-3

Front

What happens to the total resistance in a parallel circuit when more resistors are added?

Back

In a parallel circuit, the total resistance decreases as more resistors are added. The total resistance (R_total) can be calculated using the formula 1/R_total = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3 + ...

Front

How does current behave in a series circuit?

Back

In a series circuit, the current is the same through all components. The total current flowing through the circuit is equal to the current flowing through each individual component.

Front

How does current behave in a parallel circuit?

Back

In a parallel circuit, the total current is divided among the different paths. The current flowing through each component can vary depending on the resistance of each path.

Front

What is the voltage across each component in a series circuit?

Back

In a series circuit, the total voltage is divided among the components. The voltage across each component depends on its resistance and can be calculated using Ohm's Law (V = IR).

Front

What is the voltage across each component in a parallel circuit?

Back

In a parallel circuit, the voltage across each component is the same and is equal to the total voltage supplied by the source.

Front

What is Ohm's Law?

Back

Ohm's Law states that the current (I) through a conductor between two points is directly proportional to the voltage (V) across the two points and inversely proportional to the resistance (R) of the conductor. It is expressed as V = IR.

Front

What is the formula for calculating total power in a circuit?

Back

The total power (P) in a circuit can be calculated using the formula P = VI, where V is the voltage and I is the current. In a series circuit, the total power is the sum of the power consumed by each component.