In a series circuit, all components are connected end-to-end to form a single path for current flow. In a parallel circuit, all components are connected across each other with exactly two electrically common nodes with the same voltage across each component.
In a series circuit, the components are connected in a single loop, so the current flows through each component in turn. The voltage across each component is proportional to its resistance, so the total voltage across all components is equal to the sum of the individual voltages. The total resistance of the circuit is equal to the sum of the individual resistances.
In a parallel circuit, the components are connected in branches, so the current is divided between the components. The voltage across each component is equal to the supply voltage, and the total current is equal to the sum of the individual currents. The total resistance of the circuit is less than the resistance of the smallest individual resistance.
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Answer:
In a series circuit, all components are connected end-to-end to form a single path for current flow. In a parallel circuit, all components are connected across each other with exactly two electrically common nodes with the same voltage across each component.
Verified answer
In a series circuit, the components are connected in a single loop, so the current flows through each component in turn. The voltage across each component is proportional to its resistance, so the total voltage across all components is equal to the sum of the individual voltages. The total resistance of the circuit is equal to the sum of the individual resistances.
In a parallel circuit, the components are connected in branches, so the current is divided between the components. The voltage across each component is equal to the supply voltage, and the total current is equal to the sum of the individual currents. The total resistance of the circuit is less than the resistance of the smallest individual resistance.