Series and Parallel Circuits

• What are the two ways a component can be connected in a circuit?

  Series and parallel
• What are the characteristics of components connected in series and parallel?

  • Series: Total potential difference is shared
  • Parallel: Potential difference across each component is the same
• What can be said about the total resistance of two resistors connected in series?

  It is the sum of the individual resistances
• What can be said about the total resistance of two resistors connected in parallel?

  It is less than the smallest resistance
• How is the current described in a series circuit?

  The current is the same at all positions
• How is the current described in a parallel circuit?

  The current is shared between different branches
• How should an ammeter be connected to measure current?

  In series with the component
• How should a voltmeter be connected to measure potential difference?

  In parallel to the component
• Why is it advantageous to connect lamps in parallel?

  One lamp blowing does not affect others