(1) An electric circuit is a closed loop or pathway that allows electric current to flow from a power source, through components, and back to the source.
(2) Schematic diagram: A battery symbol connected in series with three light bulb symbols, all connected by straight lines forming a single loop.
(3) Schematic diagram: A battery symbol connected to three light bulb symbols arranged in parallel (each bulb on its own branch), with all branches connected back to the battery terminals.
(4) Components: Battery (voltage = V), Resistor R₁ (voltage = V₁), Resistor R₂ (voltage = V₂). Current through each component is I.
(5) The current is the same through all components: I = I₁ = I₂.
(6) The total voltage equals the sum of the individual voltages: V = V₁ + V₂.
(7) R_eq = R₁ + R₂.
(8) (a) V₁ = I × R₁, V₂ = I × R₂.
(b) V = I × R_eq.
(9) The total resistance increases.
(10) Because resistors in series add together; each additional resistor contributes its resistance to the total path, making it harder for current to flow.
(11) Total resistance is greater than any individual resistance.
(12) P = P₁ + P₂.
(13) Summary of series circuits:
I: Current is constant throughout.
V: Total voltage equals sum of individual voltages.
R: Total resistance equals sum of individual resistances.
P: Total power equals sum of individual powers.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of electric circuits worksheet with answers.
