Chapter 35, Problem 8A

a. In which case will there be more current in each of three lamps—if they are connected to the same battery in series or in parallel?

b. In which case will there be more voltage across each lamp?

To determine

Whether the current in three lamp is more if they are connected in series circuit or parallel circuit.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

In a series connection, the current flowing through each devices remains same. In a parallel connection, the current varies with the resistance of the devices.

In a series connection, the current flowing through each bulb is same while the voltage is different. In a parallel connection, the voltage across each lamp remains same while the current divides among the parallel branches.

In parallel connection, the lamps are connected in parallel and the overall resistance of the circuit decreased. So, the overall resistance of the circuit is less than the resistance of any one of the branch. There is more pathways to flow the current.

Conclusion:

The current in three lamps will be more in parallel connection.

To determine

The type of the connection of the lamps for more voltage across each lamp.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

In a parallel combination, the voltage across each device remains same but the current varies.

The current across each lamp varies in the parallel connection. If the resistance increases, then the voltage drop across each lamp increases. So, the voltage across each lamp become more is the total resistance of parallel connection is less than the resistance of each lamp in the connection.

Conclusion:

The voltage across each lamp is more for the parallel connection of the three lamps.