Comparing Series & Parallel

• What is the relationship between the currents in components connected in series?

  The current is the same through all components in series.
• How does the total current in a series circuit relate to the currents through individual lamps?

  The total current is equal to the current through each lamp.
• In a parallel circuit, how is the total current related to the currents through individual branches?

  The total current is the sum of the currents through each branch.
• What happens to charge carriers at the junction in a parallel circuit?

  Charge carriers split at the junction between the branches.
• What is the relationship between the potential difference in a series circuit and the potential differences across individual lamps?

  The total potential difference is the sum of the potential differences across each lamp.
• How does the potential difference behave in a parallel circuit?

  The potential difference across each branch is the same as the total potential difference.
• How do you calculate the total resistance in a series circuit with resistances R1 and R2?

  The total resistance is R1 plus R2.
• What is the total resistance in a parallel circuit compared to the individual resistances R1 and R2?

  The total resistance is less than both R1 and R2.
• What happens to the total current when resistors are added in series?

  The total current decreases as the total resistance increases.
• How does adding components in parallel affect the total current?

  The total current increases as the total resistance decreases.
• What is the brightness of lamps connected in parallel compared to those connected in series?

  Lamps in parallel have the same brightness regardless of the number of lamps.
• What are the key rules for measuring current and potential difference in circuits?

  • Ammeters are connected in series to measure current.
  • Voltmeters are connected in parallel to measure potential difference.
• Why are ammeters connected in series with components?

  To ensure they measure the same current flowing through the components.
• What is the resistance characteristic of an ammeter?

  An ammeter has very low resistance to avoid affecting the circuit.
• Why are voltmeters connected in parallel with components?

  To ensure they measure the same potential difference across the components.
• What is the resistance characteristic of a voltmeter?

  A voltmeter has very high resistance to avoid affecting the circuit.
• What resources does Launchpad Learning offer for GCSE revision?

  • Interactive quizzes
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  • AI tutor support
  • Comprehensive coverage of the specification