Chapter 23.1, Problem 18SSC

To determine

To compare: the voltage and the current in series and parallel circuits.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

In a series connection, the same current flows through the entire component. On the other hand, in parallel connection, different current flows through each component.

First, in terms of resistance, the effective resistance of a series circuit is greater than that of any resistor in the circuit. Whereas effective resistance of a parallel circuit is less than that of any individual resistor in the circuit. So, one can say that the resistance of a resistor can be increased by adding another resistor in series to it and it can be reduced by adding another resistor in parallel to it.

Current:

In a series, the current in the entire resistor is the same. But in a parallel circuit, the current through each resistor changes, and the sum of currents in all the resistors is equal to the total current drawn from the battery or source.

Voltage:

In a series circuit, the voltage drops across different resistors are different. The sum of the voltage drops across the entire resistor is equal to the total voltage of the battery. Whereas in a parallel circuit, the voltage drops across all the resistors is the same.

Conclusion:

Hence, all the difference between the voltage and the current in series and parallel circuits are mentioned.