Unit 7: Parallel Circuits Flashcards
What characterizes a parallel circuit?
A parallel circuit is characterized by the fact that it has more than one path for current flow.
Why are circuits in homes connected in parallel?
If the lights in your home were wired in series. All the lights in the home would have to be turned on in order for any light to operate, and, if one were to burn out, all the lights would go out. The same is true for receptacles. If receptacles were connected in series, some device would have to be connected into each receptacle before power could be supplied to any other device.
What is the rule of voltage in a parallel circuit?
The voltage across any part of the circuit is the same as the total voltage.
What is the rule of current in a parallel circuit?
The total current is the sum of the currents through all of the branches of the circuit.
What is the rule of resistance in a parallel circuit?
The total resistance is the reciprocal of the sum of the reciprocals of each individual branch.
