Topic 2: Basic Circuit Laws

Question 1

How are components connected in a series circuit?

Answer 1

Components are connected end-to end.

Question 2

How does current flow in a series circuit?

Answer 2

There is only 1 possible path for current flow. Current in a series circuit is identical.

Question 3

How are components connected in a parallel circuit?

Answer 3

Components across each other.

Question 4

Is voltage the same across components in a parallel circuit the same?

Answer 4

Yes.

Question 5

What is Kirchhoff’s current law (KCL)?

Answer 5

Kirchhoff’s Current Law states the sum of the currents entering a node is equal to the sum of currents exiting a node.
I_in = I_out

Question 6

What is Kirchhoff’s Voltage Law (KVL)?

Answer 6

Kirchhoff’s Voltage law states that the sum of the voltages around a closed loop is equal to 0.

Question 7

How do you find the equivalent resistance of resistors in series?

Answer 7

To find the equivalent resistance of resistors in series, sum all individual resistors.
Req = R1 + R2 + R3 + ….. + Rn

Question 8

How do you find the equivalent resistance of resistors in parallel?

Answer 8

To find the equivalent resistance of resistors in parallel, sum all the inverses of individual resistors.
1/Req = 1/R1 + 1/R2 +1/R3 + …..+ 1/Rn

Question 9

What is the formula to find the current across 2 resistors in parallel?

Answer 9

I1 = IT x (R2)/(R1 + R2)
I1 = IT x (R2)/(R1 + R2)

Question 10

What is the formula to find the equivalent resistance of 2 resistors connected in parallel?

Answer 10

Req = [R1 x R2] /[(R1) + (R2)]