Chapter 35, Problem 3A

Distinguish between a series circuit and a parallel circuit.

To determine

The difference between a series circuit and a parallel circuit.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The electric devices in the circuit can be arranged in two configurations. The first one is the series circuit and other is the parallel circuit.

The current in the series circuit remains same. The voltage drop across each electric device is different. This configuration is used when the entire electric device in the circuit requires the same current. All the electric devices in series circuit are connected by end to end connection between the devices.

All the electric devices are connected so that they undergo the same voltage across each electric device in the parallel circuit. The current through each device in the parallel circuit remain different. The household wiring are done by the parallel circuit.

Conclusion:

The current in the series circuit remain constant and the voltage remains constant in the parallel circuit.