Parallel Circuits

Question 1

Describe Parallel circuits (3)

Answer 1

1) Each component is separately connected to the =ve and -ve of the supply
2) If you remove/disconnect one of them, it will hardly affect the others
3) How most things are connected

Question 2

Describe potential difference in Parallel circuits

Answer 2

1)) All components get the full source P.D, so the voltage is the same across all components
V₁ = V₂ = V₃
2) This means that identical bulbs connected in parallel will all be at the same brightness

Question 3

Describe current in Parallel circuits

Answer 3

1) The total current flowing around the circuit is equal to the total of all the currents through the separate components: A = A₁ + A₂…
2) There are junctions where the current either splits or rejoins. The total current going into a junction has to equal the current leaving it

Question 4

Describe ammeters in all circuits

Answer 4

Always connected in series

Question 5

Describe voltmeters in all circuits

Answer 5

Always connected in parallel with a component

Question 6

Why are parallel circuits used in cars?

Answer 6

1) Everything can be turned on and off separately

2) Everything gets the full, voltage from the battery

Question 7

What is the disadvantage of using parallel circuits in cars?

Answer 7

If lots of things are o the lights might dim because the battery can’t provide full voltage under heavy load.