- In a series circuit, electrons flow from the negative terminal of the battery, through the first bulb, then through the second bulb, and back to the positive terminal of the battery. All components are connected end-to-end in a single loop.
- If a light bulb is missing or broken in a series circuit, the other bulb will not light because the path for electricity is broken — there is no alternative route for current to flow.
- In a parallel circuit, electrons flow from the negative terminal of the battery and split into two separate paths, each going through one bulb, then recombine before returning to the positive terminal of the battery.
- If a light bulb is missing or broken in a parallel circuit, the other bulb will still light because electricity can travel along the alternate path that avoids the broken bulb.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of electric circuits worksheets with answers pdf.