5.72. Series and Parallel Circuits http://www.ck12.org
Summary
- An electric circuit consists of one or two closed loops through which current can flow. It has a voltage source
and a conductor and may have other devices such as lights and switches. - A circuit that consists of one loop is called a series circuit. If its single loop is interrupted at any point, no
current can flow through the circuit. - A circuit that consists of two loops is called a parallel circuit. If one loop of a parallel circuit is interrupted,
current can still flow through the other loop.
Vocabulary
- parallel circuit: Electric circuit that has two loops through which current can flow.
- series circuit: Electric circuit that has only one loop through which current can flow.
Explore More
Take the quiz at the following URL and then check your answers. http://www.twothirtyvolts.org.uk/education/revis
ion-quiz/electric-circuits-11to14.html
Review
- Compare and contrast series and parallel circuits.
- Create a sketch of a parallel circuit that contains a voltage source and two light bulbs.