AC Parallel Circuit: Current In-Phase with Voltage?

In summary, the phase relationship between current and voltage in a series circuit depends on the load. If the load is resistive, then the current is in phase with voltage. However, in parallel circuits, the phase relationship depends on the components in each branch and may not always be in phase.
  • #1
FionaZJ
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Current is in phase with voltage in series. What about in parallel?
 
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  • #2
I disagree that "in series" makes the V and I in phase, If the load is only resistive, then yes. You can say that the current through each element in a series circuit is in phase. ( but not the voltage)

As for Parallel it depends on the components in the different branches. Consider 3 branches, a resistor, an inductor and a capacitor ( all ideal) -- they each have a different V & I relationship. The Voltage across each branch is the same, but not the currents ( unless the branches are identical - of course)
 
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Likes FionaZJ and berkeman
  • #3
Oh okay. Thank you
 

FAQ: AC Parallel Circuit: Current In-Phase with Voltage?

What is an AC parallel circuit?

An AC parallel circuit is a type of electrical circuit that consists of multiple branches connected in parallel, with each branch having its own components such as resistors, capacitors, and inductors. The circuit allows for multiple paths for the flow of alternating current (AC) from the power source.

How does an AC parallel circuit differ from a series circuit?

In a series circuit, the components are connected in a single path, whereas in a parallel circuit, the components are connected in multiple branches. In a parallel circuit, the voltage across each branch is the same, while the current through each branch may vary. In contrast, in a series circuit, the current through each component is the same, while the voltage across each component may vary.

What does it mean for current to be in-phase with voltage in an AC parallel circuit?

In an AC parallel circuit, current is said to be in-phase with voltage when both the current and voltage reach their maximum and minimum values at the same time. This is due to the fact that the voltage and current in a parallel circuit have the same frequency and are in sync with each other.

How is the total current in an AC parallel circuit calculated?

The total current in an AC parallel circuit is calculated by adding up the individual currents in each branch. This can be done using Kirchhoff's Current Law, which states that the total current entering a junction is equal to the total current leaving the junction.

What are the advantages of using an AC parallel circuit?

One advantage of using an AC parallel circuit is that it allows for more efficient use of power, as the current is divided among multiple branches. Additionally, if one branch in the circuit fails, the other branches can still function. This makes AC parallel circuits more reliable than series circuits.

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