Series and Parallel Circuits
Electrical circuits are usually not simple, that is, consisting of one load and one source.
They usually consist of multiple loads.
How these are connected determines how they are classified
In series circuits, the component are joined sequentially, whereas parallel circuits are connected as alternate paths
They usually consist of multiple loads.
How these are connected determines how they are classified
In series circuits, the component are joined sequentially, whereas parallel circuits are connected as alternate paths
Resistors in Series
Resistors in Parallel
Lets first explore an analogy to see how voltage , current and resistance plays a part in these circuits.
Using the analogy of a water slide, this will help you understand the comparison of a simple circuit vs a series circuit vs a parallel circuit.
Using the analogy of a water slide, this will help you understand the comparison of a simple circuit vs a series circuit vs a parallel circuit.
Once you have mastered the key concepts, move on to the maths version, where Kirchoff's Laws are used to analyse circuits.
Sample Problem
We are now ready to try a sample problem
Below is a sample problem with a video that explain how to solve it. It is suggested you try the problem beforehand, as this actually aids understanding, even if you are unsure if you are correct.
We are now ready to try a sample problem
Below is a sample problem with a video that explain how to solve it. It is suggested you try the problem beforehand, as this actually aids understanding, even if you are unsure if you are correct.
Interactive
Use this animation from pHET to set up your own circuits. A good way to apply your skills to to determine the various values using the maths, and then use the ammeter and voltage tools to confirm your calculations
Use this animation from pHET to set up your own circuits. A good way to apply your skills to to determine the various values using the maths, and then use the ammeter and voltage tools to confirm your calculations
Check your understanding
More problems to try
- w_intro_to_series_and_parallel.pdf
Intro to series and parallel circuits - a 'rough' worksheet I got from a scanned text. A good start - Circuits from Ingrum
another outsourced worksheet (answers)