Parallel and Series 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 same current flows through each component.

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, allowing multiple paths for the current to flow.

Front

What happens to the current in a series circuit?

Back

In a series circuit, the same current flows through all components.

Front

What happens to the voltage in a series circuit?

Back

In a series circuit, the total voltage is the sum of the voltages across each component.

Front

What happens to the current in a parallel circuit?

Back

In a parallel circuit, the total current is the sum of the currents through each parallel branch.

Front

What happens to the voltage in a parallel circuit?

Back

In a parallel circuit, the voltage across each component is the same.

Front

What is the role of a battery in a circuit?

Back

A battery provides the electrical energy needed to drive the current through the circuit.

Front

What is an insulator?

Back

An insulator is a material that does not allow electric current to flow through it easily.

Front

What is a conductor?

Back

A conductor is a material that allows electric current to flow through it easily.

Front

What is the formula for total resistance in a series circuit?

Back

The total resistance (R_total) in a series circuit is the sum of the individual resistances: R_total = R1 + R2 + R3 + ...