A circuit of four elements. Which are in series and which are in parallel?

In summary, the conversation discussed a diagram and problem involving series and parallel elements. The individual believes that all elements are in parallel, but has never seen anything like it before. They attempted to re-shape the diagram and concluded that all elements are in parallel.
  • #1
siylence
7
0
I basically have this diagram:
[PLAIN]http://www.tinyimg.org/images/595physic144.png [Broken]

The problem asks "which of the elements are in series and which of the elements are in parallel?"

I WANT to say that they are ALL in parallel with each other and none are in series, but I've never seen anything like that before. I tried re-shaping the diagram and I got this:

[PLAIN]http://www.tinyimg.org/images/550physic144attempt.png [Broken]

Am I wrong about this, because that looks like they're all in parallel to me?
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
siylence said:
I basically have this diagram:
[PLAIN]http://www.tinyimg.org/images/595physic144.png [Broken]

The problem asks "which of the elements are in series and which of the elements are in parallel?"

I WANT to say that they are ALL in parallel with each other and none are in series, but I've never seen anything like that before. I tried re-shaping the diagram and I got this:

[PLAIN]http://www.tinyimg.org/images/550physic144attempt.png [Broken]

Am I wrong about this, because that looks like they're all in parallel to me?

That's the answer I would give. The short circuit path around the outside pretty much removes and "series" paths that I can see.

Welcome to the PF, BTW.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #3
That's what I was thinking.

And thank you, I plan on being active in the forums.
 

1. What is a circuit of four elements?

A circuit of four elements is a type of electrical circuit that consists of four components, such as resistors, capacitors, or inductors, connected in a specific way to allow the flow of electricity.

2. What does it mean for elements to be in series?

When elements are in series, it means that they are connected end-to-end, forming a single path for electricity to flow through. In a series circuit, the same amount of current flows through each element.

3. What does it mean for elements to be in parallel?

When elements are in parallel, it means that they are connected side-by-side, forming multiple paths for electricity to flow through. In a parallel circuit, the total current is divided among the elements based on their individual resistances.

4. How can I determine which elements are in series and which are in parallel?

To determine which elements are in series and which are in parallel, you can follow the path of the current and see if it passes through each element in a single path (series) or if it splits and flows through multiple paths (parallel).

5. What are the advantages of a circuit with four elements in series and parallel?

A circuit with four elements in series and parallel allows for more flexibility in controlling the flow of electricity. It also allows for a higher overall resistance and reduces the risk of failure if one element were to malfunction.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
20
Views
256
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
771
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
34
Views
3K
Back
Top