Chapter 25, Problem 1FTD

Are household electrical outlets connected in series or parallel? How do you know?

To determine

To explain: Are household electrical outlets are connected in series of parallel.

Answer to Problem 1FTD

The household electrical circuits should be connected in parallel rather than series. The series connections are found to be disruptive.

Explanation of Solution

Given info: .

The household outlets should be in parallel combination. Series combination is not a good option for household electrical connection. One of the main advantage of parallel connection is the resistance offered by the entire circuit will be less than that of resistance offered by the series circuit because in series connections the total resistance will be the sum of all resistances, hence current will be less.

In parallel combinations the voltage distribution will be equal, hence all equipment’s will get equal full voltage. It is easy to add or remove devices from the circuit in parallel combinations without affecting entire circuit.

If household circuits are in series connection then any failure in any part will disrupt the working of other parts. Thus parallel connections are the good option for household electric outlets.

Conclusion:

The household electrical circuits should be connected in parallel rather than series. The series connections are found to be disruptive.