2.2 Series and Parallel Circuits

Question 1

what are the two ways that a component can be connected in a circuit?

Answer 1

1. series (same loop)
2. parallel (adjacent loop)

Question 2

how does the potential difference across two components vary when connected in series and parallel?

Answer 2

• series: total PD is shared between each component
• parallel: PD across each component is the same

Question 3

is two resistors are connected in parallel, what can be said about their combined total resistance?

Answer 3

their total resistance is less than the smallest of the two individual resistances.

Question 4

if two resistors are connected in series, what can be said about their totla resistance?

Answer 4

their total combined resistance is equal to the sum of the two individual resistances.

Question 5

describe the currnet in a series circuit.

Answer 5

in a series circuit, the current is the same at all positions since the charge only has one path to flow through.

Question 6

describe the current in a parallel circuit.

Answer 6

in a parallel circuit, the current is shared between the different branches. when the charge reaches a junction it splits.

Question 7

how should you connect an ammeter in a circuit to measure current?

Answer 7

ammeters should be connected in series with the component that they are measuring current through.

Question 8

how should you connect a voltmeter in a circuit to measure potential difference?

Answer 8

voltmeters should be connected in parallel to the component that they are measuring the potential difference of.

Question 9

why is it advantageous to connect lamps in parallel?

Answer 9

if one lamp blows, the rest will be unaffected and can still recieve current (i.e. the circuit is still complete).