Overview
This lecture explains the properties of parallel circuits, focusing on how they distribute potential difference, current, and resistance among their components.
What are Parallel Circuits?
- Parallel circuits have more than one loop, with each loop often containing a single component.
- In parallel circuits, if one component fails, the rest of the circuit continues to work.
Distribution of Potential Difference
- Each component in a parallel circuit receives the full source potential difference (voltage).
- For example, with a 12V battery, every component in parallel gets 12V across it.
Distribution of Current
- The total current from the source splits across the different loops in the circuit.
- The sum of the currents in all loops equals the total current of the circuit.
- Loops with lower resistance carry more current, while loops with higher resistance carry less.
Resistance in Parallel Circuits
- Adding more components in parallel decreases the total (overall) resistance of the circuit.
- More paths for current make it easier for electricity to flow, reducing total resistance even if new resistors have high resistance.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Parallel Circuit — A circuit with more than one loop, where each component is on its own branch.
- Potential Difference (Voltage) — The energy per unit charge supplied by the source, measured across each component.
- Current — The flow of electric charge, splits between branches in parallel circuits.
- Resistance — A measure of how much a component opposes the flow of current; in parallel, total resistance decreases as more branches are added.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the differences between series and parallel circuits, especially if unclear on series circuits.