Electrical Engineering: Wired Switches Flashcards
Basics about electrical engineering when it comes to wired switches; further information can be found in STEM Critical Thinking Packet I
What must occur in series wired switches to complete the circuit?
both switches must be closed
Which logic gate is the series wired switches similar to?
the “AND” gate
What must occur in parallel wired switches to complete the circuit?
you can complete the circuit by closing either of the switches
In what situation are parallel wired switches convenient?
when controlling a circuit from two different locations
Which logic gate is the parallel wired switches similar to?
the “OR” gate
What is the formula for the amount of current flow?
I = V/R, where I is the current, V is the voltage, and R is the value of the resistance
What is the proportionality between the current and the resistance?
inverse proportionality, meaning the higher the resistance the lower the current
When two resistors (R1, R2, …) are connected in a series, what is the formula for the total resistance?
the sum of all the resistors, Rtotal = R1 + R2 + R3…
What another material is like a resistor?
A lamp; consider lamps in a circuit as a resistor
What is resistance measured in?
Ohms (Ω)
What will happen in a series circuit if the switch is open?
No current will flow at all. The switch could be placed anywhere in the circuit and have the same effect.
If you have a battery (V) hooked to a resistor R1, what is the formula for the current I1?
I1 = V/R1
If you add resistor R2 to circuit in series with R1 which is hooked to a battery (V), what will happen to the total resistance and current?
there will be a higher total resistance and less current I2 will flow in the circuit
When two or more resistors (R1, R2, R3,…) are connected in parallel, what is the formula for total resistance?
1/Rtotal = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3…
In a circuit with two lights, what will happen with one switch vs. two switches?
With one switch, if it’s open both lights will be off and if it’s closed, both lights will be on. With two switches, you will be able to control the lights individually.
