Explaining DC Open vs Closed Circuits Simplified

[eric0524]

I am trying to find a extremely simple answer to explain the difference between a DC open circuit and a closed circuit. I tried to explain it with the water theory but that didn't work so well.

 

[eric0524]

Thank you for the reply this thread is now complete. (not sure why none of the posts showed up but it's solved)

 

[jsgruszynski]

I am trying to find a extremely simple answer to explain the difference between a DC open circuit and a closed circuit. I tried to explain it with the water theory but that didn't work so well.

Basically think about if there's a full circuit "loop" for current to flow. An open circuit has an open or broken loop. An closed circuit has a closed or complete loop.

http://www.w3.org/2000/08/nba-manual/circuit.gif

Left is open. Right is closed.