Series and Parallel Circuits Flashcard

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.

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

If one component fails (like a light bulb), the entire circuit is broken and all components stop working.

A parallel circuit is a type of electrical circuit where components are connected across common points or junctions, allowing multiple paths for current to flow.

In a parallel circuit, the total current is divided among the different paths, and each component receives the same voltage.

If one component fails in a parallel circuit, the other components continue to work.

Resistance is a measure of the opposition to the flow of electric current, measured in ohms.

As resistance increases, the current decreases, assuming voltage remains constant.

Ohm's Law states that the current (I) through a conductor between two points is directly proportional to the voltage (V) across the two points and inversely proportional to the resistance (R). It can be expressed as V = I * R.

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