jsalapide said:
In a series circuit, the components are connected in a single loop, meaning the current flows through each component in order. In a parallel circuit, the components are connected in multiple branches, allowing the current to flow through each branch separately.
In a series circuit, the voltage is divided among the components, meaning each component receives a fraction of the total voltage. In a parallel circuit, the voltage is the same across each branch, but the total current is divided among the branches.
Generally, parallel circuits are more resistant to failure because if one component fails, the current can still flow through the other branches. In a series circuit, if one component fails, the entire circuit will stop working.
In a series circuit, the total resistance is the sum of all individual resistances. In a parallel circuit, the total resistance is calculated by finding the reciprocal of each resistance and adding them together, then taking the reciprocal of the sum.
A series circuit is used when the components need to share the same current and voltage, such as in Christmas lights. A parallel circuit is used when different components require different currents and voltages, such as in a household electrical system.
