Parallel Circuits

Front

What is a parallel circuit?

Back

A parallel circuit is an electrical circuit that allows multiple paths for current to flow. In this type of circuit, the voltage across each component is the same, but the current can vary.

Front

What happens to the total current in a parallel circuit when more branches are added?

Back

The total current increases as more branches are added because each branch provides an additional path for current to flow.

Front

In a parallel circuit, what remains constant across all components?

Back

Voltage remains constant across all components in a parallel circuit.

Front

What is the relationship between total resistance and the number of branches in a parallel circuit?

Back

The total resistance decreases as more branches are added to a parallel circuit.

Front

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

Back

1/R_total = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3 + ... + 1/Rn, where R_total is the total resistance and R1, R2, R3, etc. are the resistances of individual branches.

Front

What is the effect of adding resistors in parallel on the overall resistance?

Back

Adding resistors in parallel decreases the overall resistance of the circuit.

Front

What is the main characteristic of current in a parallel circuit?

Back

The current can vary in each branch of a parallel circuit, but the sum of the currents in all branches equals the total current.

Front

How does voltage behave in a series circuit compared to a parallel circuit?

Back

In a series circuit, voltage is divided among components, while in a parallel circuit, voltage is the same across all components.

Front

What is a common application of parallel circuits?

Back

Parallel circuits are commonly used in household wiring, allowing multiple devices to operate independently.

Front

What happens to the total current if one branch in a parallel circuit is disconnected?

Back

The total current will decrease, but the other branches will continue to function.