P4.6 - Parallel Circuits (Finished) Flashcards
How are components in a parallel circuit connected?
In parallel circuits, each component is separately connected to the +ve and -ve of the power supply
What is the advantage if parallel circuits over series circuits?
In parallel circuits every component is separately connected so if one is removed or breaks the circuit is not broken
How is potential difference spread out across components in a parallel circuit?
In parallel circuits all components get the same full source pd
How is current spread out in parallel circuits?
In parallel circuits current is shared out between branches
What happens when you add resistors in parallel?
With two resistors in parallel, their total resistance is lower than that if the smallest resistor. Total resistance is reduced.
Why is total resistance reduced when components are connected in parallel?
In parallel, all resistors have the same potential difference across them as the source so the current flow is the same. However the current splits at branches, so the total current that can flow through the circuit is increased . V = IR so an increase in current means a decrease in resistance
How do you calculate current through a resistor in a parallel circuit?
Current = voltage / resistance
