A circuit with a single path for electricity to flow.
A circuit that has alternating paths for current.
A type of electrical circuit in which there are multiple paths for electricity to flow, allowing components to be connected separately across two points.
A circuit in which all components are connected in a series.
The total resistance is always less than the smallest individual resistance because the paths increase, allowing more current to flow.
The total resistance equals the sum of individual resistances.
The total resistance is higher than the highest individual resistance.
The total resistance remains the same as the first resistor.
The total current is the sum of the currents through each path. Each component receives the full current flowing through its branch.
The total current is divided equally among components.
Current is only present in one path at a time.
Only half the current flows through each component.
The voltage across each component is the same and is equal to the source voltage.
The voltage is divided among components.
Voltage is less than the source voltage at each branch.
Voltage varies according to the total resistance.
The other branches continue to function as paths for current remain unaffected.
The entire circuit stops functioning.
The voltage across each component drops to zero.
Current still flows through the disconnected branch.
For two resistors R1 and R2 in parallel, the total resistance Rt is calculated using 1/Rt = 1/R1 + 1/R2.
Total resistance equals the sum of R1 and R2.
Total resistance is found by doubling the smallest resistance.
Total resistance equals the square of the largest resistance.
Series capacitors in a flashlight.
A single circuit TV connection.
Household appliances like lights and electrical outlets are typically connected in parallel so that they can operate independently.
Battery cells in a remote control.
They use less energy overall.
Parallel circuits allow each appliance to have the same voltage and flexibility to operate independently, making it safer and more convenient.
Each appliance operates with higher power.
They require fewer wires, reducing clutter.
For three resistors, the total resistance Rt is found using 1/Rt = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3.
The total resistance is the product of all three resistances.
Multiply the largest resistance by the number of resistors.
Divide the smallest resistance by three.
Each branch of a parallel circuit carries a portion of the total current, which accumulates to equal the total current flowing into the circuit.
The total current is twice the current of one branch.
The total current equals the current in the largest branch.
Total current is always higher than that in any branch.
Excessive voltage supply to the circuit.
Overloads occur when too many devices are connected, increasing the total current beyond safe levels, risking circuit damage and fires.
Insufficient current distribution across the circuit.
All connected devices demanding the minimum current.
Devices such as TVs, computers, and kitchen appliances use parallel circuits.
Single light bulb setups with series connections.
Old telegraph systems.
Batteries in torches.
Because voltage is distributed based on resistance.
Because each component connects directly across the voltage source, ensuring they each receive the same potential difference.
Due to the multiplicity of current paths available.
Since voltage is the same at only one point in the circuit.
Adding more paths can enable more current to flow, reducing the total resistance of the circuit.
It reduces the total current flow into the circuit.
It disturbs the voltage distribution equally across components.
It increases the total resistance of the circuit.
By using a single series circuit with switches.
Bulbs cannot remain lit if they are in the same circuit.
Bulbs are connected in parallel, and this independent connection allows others to remain on even if one goes out.
By connecting to a different voltage source.