Parallel circuits

Click for a quick introduction on parallel circuits. The circuit pictured on the right below, shows two light globes connected in parallel. Notice how both light globes glow with maximum brightness when compared to the two light globes connected in a series circuit as shown below left.


Series
Series circuit


Parallel circuit

In a parallel circuit all electrical devices have their own connection to the positive and negative terminals of the power source. If one device blows the others will still operate.
Since each device has its own connection to the terminals of the power source, the voltage is the same across each device as the voltage supplied by the power source.
The total current in the circuit is equal to the sum of the current flowing through each device. As more and more devices are added the current flowing through the circuit increases and overload can result.

Exercises

 

The elastic band provides the tension to automatically close the gate. Metal contacts that complete the circuit and cause the light to glow when the gate is shut The light indicating if the gate is open or closed An electromagnet that activates the lock The bolt that is lifted through a scre eye by the electromagnet The gate
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