Battery in parallel or series ?

In summary, the question asks whether batteries connected in parallel or in series will result in a brighter lightbulb, given that the batteries have the same electromotive force of 1.5v. While the parallel configuration may provide more power, the series configuration may result in a longer lasting lightbulb. However, the concept of "better" is subjective without a specific context. Ultimately, the choice between parallel and series connections depends on the desired outcome and the limitations of the batteries.
  • #1
yuganes warman
Hi fellows. Are batteries connected in parallel better than battery connected in series ? Think of two circuits , with 1 identical bulb each circuit.The first circuit is connected with a battery in series , and the battery in the second circuit will be connected in parallel (2 batteries). Which bulb is the brightest , given that the two bulbs are identical and the batteries , each has e.m.f of 1.5v. Please explain though.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
yuganes warman said:
Hi fellows. Are batteries connected in parallel better than battery connected in series ? Think of two circuits , with 1 identical bulb each circuit.The first circuit is connected with a battery in series , and the battery in the second circuit will be connected in parallel (2 batteries). Which bulb is the brightest , given that the two bulbs are identical and the batteries , each has e.m.f of 1.5v. Please explain though.
This sounds like a homework problem. If so, it should be posted with the template and in a homework section.
 
  • #3
One option might make the bulb brighter but the other might make the bulb shine for longer. Which is "better"?
 
  • #4
one gives more power but less voltage, which I think is a restatement of the above post.

"better" is subjective without a context of a specific problem.
 
  • #5
Current is the same throughout a series circuit, and additive in parallel. Voltage is the same throughout a parallel circuit, and additive in series. Brightness of a lightbulb is controlled by amplitude, or voltage, and the amount of time the light will burn is controlled by the current dissipated through the light and the Ah capacity of the batteries.

BTW, both configurations have exactly the same amount of power available, according to Watt's law, P=IE.
 
  • #6
The problem is, in the scenario of ideal batteries (not knowing anything else that's what we can only go by), putting two batteries in parallel serves no purpose. The voltage stays the same, and combined with the resistance of the light bulb it's what determines the power transferred to the bulb, with P=V^2/R. From that standpoint the serial arrangement is the "better" since it doubles they voltage, and thus quadruples the transferred power.

That said, the reason people put batteries in parallel is because they are never ideal. They will often have a limit to the current they can deliver, and for how long. Both of those are improved when putting several in parallel.
 

1. What is the difference between connecting batteries in parallel and series?

When batteries are connected in parallel, the positive terminals are connected to each other, and the negative terminals are connected to each other. This results in a combined output voltage that is equal to the voltage of a single battery, but with a higher total current capacity. On the other hand, when batteries are connected in series, the positive terminal of one battery is connected to the negative terminal of the next battery, resulting in a combined output voltage that is equal to the sum of the individual battery voltages, but with the same total current capacity as a single battery.

2. Which configuration is better for increasing the voltage of a battery?

When the goal is to increase the voltage of a battery, connecting batteries in series is the better option. This will result in a combined output voltage that is equal to the sum of the individual battery voltages. However, it is important to note that the total current capacity remains the same as a single battery.

3. How does connecting batteries in parallel affect the overall capacity?

Connecting batteries in parallel increases the total capacity of the battery system. This means that the batteries can provide more current for a longer period of time. However, it is important to ensure that the batteries are of the same type and capacity when connecting them in parallel to prevent imbalances and potential damage.

4. What are the advantages of connecting batteries in series over parallel?

Connecting batteries in series allows for a higher output voltage, which is useful for powering devices that require a higher voltage. It also allows for the use of smaller batteries while still achieving the desired voltage. Additionally, connecting batteries in series can help balance out imbalances in individual batteries.

5. Can I connect batteries in parallel and series at the same time?

Yes, it is possible to connect batteries in both parallel and series to achieve a desired voltage and capacity. This is known as a series-parallel connection. However, it is important to carefully plan and calculate the configuration to ensure that the batteries are properly balanced and can handle the current and voltage demands.

Similar threads

Why do the headlights on the car become dim when the car is starting?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
275
Batteries in Parallel vs Series
    • Other Physics Topics
Replies
4
Views
5K
Optimum Battery (and Wire) to Power 10x Mini 1.5V Bulbs in Parallel?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
778
B The voltage between two points
    • Electromagnetism
Replies
10
Views
170
Voltaic cell + battery in series
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
3
Views
453
Is Bulb A Brighter in a Parallel Circuit Due to Potential Difference?
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
918
B How to remember what happens to I, V and R in a circuit?
    • Other Physics Topics
Replies
10
Views
1K
Manually charging batteries
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
11
Views
228
Connect parallel batteries with wrong poles
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
17
Views
1K
B Batteries in Parallel Arrangement
    • Other Physics Topics
Replies
11
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top