Series and Parallel Circuits (5.5)

Question 1

Name two disadvantages of Series circuits

Answer 1

if one component breaks, whole circuit is broken as it is no longer a loop

Individual components cannot be turned off

Question 2

Kirchhoff’s rule (ASK)

Question 3

Current in series circuit is the same in every part of the circuit (NA)

Question 4

What is equivalent resistance

Answer 4

Can be used in circuits to simplify a complicated diagram so that current and potential difference can be calculated

Question 5

The potential difference in a parallel circuit is the same in each branch of the circuit (NA)

Question 6

The effective (Total) resistance of a set of resistors connected in parallel will always be smaller than the smallest resistor in the set (R total < R smallest resistor).
Explain why this occurs?

Answer 6

Added resistors results in added pathways for current to flow. As more current flows, the resistance of the circuit has been effectively reduced.