Let's analyze each of the four circuits shown in the worksheet to determine whether they are
series or
parallel circuits.
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🔍 Key Concepts:
-
Series Circuit: Components are connected
end-to-end, forming a
single path for current. The same current flows through all components.
-
Parallel Circuit: Components are connected across common points, providing
multiple paths for current. The voltage across each component is the same.
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✔ Circuit 1:
- There is
one battery and
one bulb.
- The wire forms a
single loop from the battery to the bulb and back.
- Only one path for current.
➡️
Answer: SERIES
> ✔️
Reason: Only one component and one path — this is a basic series circuit.
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✔ Circuit 2:
- One battery and
two bulbs.
- The bulbs are connected
in line, one after the other.
- Current flows from the battery → first bulb → second bulb → back to battery.
- Only
one path for current.
➡️
Answer: SERIES
> ✔️
Reason: Bulbs are connected end-to-end; no branching — so it's a series circuit.
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✔ Circuit 3:
- One battery and
three bulbs.
- The bulbs are connected
side-by-side, with each bulb having its own separate path from the battery.
- The wires
split into three branches, each going to a bulb, then rejoin.
➡️
Answer: PARALLEL
> ✔️
Reason: Each bulb has its own independent path from the battery. This is a classic parallel circuit setup.
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✔ Circuit 4:
- One battery and
three bulbs.
- The bulbs are connected
in a single loop.
- Current flows from the battery → through all three bulbs in sequence → back to battery.
- No branching — only
one path.
➡️
Answer: SERIES
> ✔️
Reason: All bulbs are in a single continuous loop — even though the wires look curved, there’s still just one path for current.
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✔ Final Answers:
| Circuit | Type |
|--------|------------|
| 1 |
SERIES |
| 2 |
SERIES |
| 3 |
PARALLEL |
| 4 |
SERIES |
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📝 Summary:
-
Series: Components in a single path (like a chain).
-
Parallel: Components have separate paths (like branches).
You should
circle "SERIES" for circuits 1, 2, and 4, and
"PARALLEL" for circuit 3.
Let me know if you'd like a visual explanation or a diagram breakdown!
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of parallel and series circuits worksheet.
