Parallel & Series Circuits Flashcards
TRUE or FALSE: The third prong in a three-prong plug acts as a safety device by “grounding” extra electrons.
True.
TRUE or FALSE: When bulbs are added in a series circuit, the bulbs get dimmer because they have less current going through them.
False. They get dimmer because each bulb receives a smaller amount of potential difference.
TRUE or FALSE: A phantom load is a load that uses electricity when it is a plugged in even when it is not being used.
True.
TRUE or FALSE: A 15 watt LED uses the same energy as a 15 watt incandescent light bulb.
False. It uses less energy, as incandescent light bulbs waste a lot of energy.
TRUE or FALSE: In a parallel circuit, if I1 = 2A, I2 = 2A, and I3 = 2A, then IT = 2A.
False. IT would be equal to 6A.
TRUE or FALSE: Total resistance in a series circuit is lower than any individual resistance.
False. In a PARALLEL circuit.
TRUE or FALSE: A circuit with a 20A fuse means that the wires are designed for 20V of electricity.
False. 20A of CURRENT.
TRUE or FALSE: The new electrical meters called “smart” meters record, not only how much electrical energy a house uses, but also the time of day the electricity is used.
True.
TRUE or FALSE: A circuit breaker is used in areas where there is water nearby.
False. A GFI/GFCI is used where water is nearby.
TRUE or FALSE: “Clean” or “green” energy refers to making energy without creating any “bad” products to do so.
True.
You have a circuit with a battery, switch, lamp, and the necessary conductors. Give three ways you can create an open circuit.
- Turning the switch off.
- Gap in the wires.
- Light in lamp is unscrewed.
How does a fuse act as a safety device?
A fuse acts as a safety device by breaking when too much CURRENT flows through it. This stops electricity and protects the circuit from exploding/catching on fire.
What do the terms “peak” (on-peak) and “off-peak” hours mean?
Why should everyone understand what these terms are?
- Peak (on-peak) hours refer to the times people are using electricity the most, causing it to be more costly. (expensive)
- Off-peak hours refer to the times less people are using electricity– therefore it is cheaper.
- Everyone should understand what these terms are so that they are able to save money by using appliances at different times of the day.
Where would you see an energuide label?
- You could see one on appliances and heating/cooling systems (refrigerator, etc.)
Give TWO important pieces of information found on energuide labels:
- How many kilowatts the appliance uses per year.
- Scale comparing how energy efficient it is compared to other appliances.
- The star signifies that it is one of the most energy efficient = one of the best to use.
Total equations for SERIES circuits:
VT = V1 + V2 + V3…
IT = I1 = I2 = I3…
RT = R1 + R2 + R3…
Total equations for PARALLEL circuits:
VT = V1 = V2 = V3…
IT = I1 + I2 + I3…
RT = ODD, but can be calculated when knowing that I x R = V.
What is “green” or “clean” energy and some examples?
- Energy that does not create “bad” products
- Energy that does little to no harm to our environment
- Energy that uses natural sources
EX: - Solar
- Wind
- Hydro
- Geothermal
Why should you never replace a 15A fuse with a 20A fuse?
- The wires are only designed for 15A of current.
- The wires will not be able to handle the current, which will result in the circuit catching on fire.
HOW ARE THEY SAFETY DEVICES?:
- 3-Pronged Outlet
- Thicker Wires
- GFI (GFCI)
- The bottom hole is a grounder.
- They carry more current.
- If water nearby, it turns off electricity to prevent getting electrocuted.
How can we use less energy?
- Take baths instead of showers.
- Carpool.
- Replace lightbulbs to energy efficient ones.
- Unplugging devices when not in use.
- Use natural light throughout the day.
