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 current flows through each component one after the other.

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 the current to split and flow through multiple paths.

Front

What happens to the current in a series circuit when one component fails?

Back

If one component fails in a series circuit, the entire circuit is broken and the current stops flowing.

Front

What happens to the current in a parallel circuit when one component fails?

Back

If one component fails in a parallel circuit, the current can still flow through the other paths, so the circuit continues to operate.

Front

What is a conductor?

Back

A conductor is a material that allows electricity to flow through it easily, such as metals like copper and aluminum.

Front

What is an insulator?

Back

An insulator is a material that does not allow electricity to flow through it easily, such as rubber, wood, or glass.

Front

Give an example of a conductor.

Back

Copper is a common example of a conductor.

Front

Give an example of an insulator.

Back

Rubber is a common example of an insulator.

Front

How do you identify a series circuit?

Back

In a series circuit, there is only one path for the current to flow, and all components share the same current.

Front

How do you identify a parallel circuit?

Back

In a parallel circuit, there are multiple paths for the current to flow, and each component has the same voltage across it.