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Understanding series and parallel circuits

Electricity and circuits • Series and parallel circuits

Key concepts

What you'll likely be quizzed about

  • In a series circuit, components are connected end-to-end, forming a single path for current.
  • When one component fails, the entire circuit is interrupted, stopping the flow of electricity.
  • The total resistance increases as more components are added, resulting in a decrease in current if the voltage source remains constant.
  • Each component in a series circuit shares the same current, which is different from parallel circuits where the current can vary.

Flashcards

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What occurs when a component fails in a series circuit?

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If a component fails, the entire circuit is interrupted and no current flows.

Key notes

Important points to keep in mind

Series circuits interrupt current if one component fails.

Parallel circuits maintain function if one component fails.

In series, total resistance increases with more components.

In parallel, components share the same voltage.

Total current in a parallel circuit equals the sum of individual currents.

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