Let's analyze each of the 8 circuits shown in the worksheet and determine whether each is a
series circuit or a
parallel circuit.
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🔍 Key Definitions:
-
Series Circuit: Components (like bulbs) are connected
end-to-end in a single path. The current flows through one bulb, then the next, and so on. If one bulb fails, the whole circuit breaks.
-
Parallel Circuit: Components are connected across common points, forming
multiple paths for current. Each bulb has its own separate path to the battery. If one bulb fails, others can still work.
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Now let’s go through each circuit:
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1.
- Three bulbs connected
in a line, one after another.
- One wire from battery → bulb 1 → bulb 2 → bulb 3 → back to battery.
-
Only one path for current.
✔ Series Circuit
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2.
- Three bulbs connected
vertically, each with its own
separate branch.
- All bulbs connect directly between the top and bottom wires.
- Each bulb has its own path from positive to negative terminal.
✔ Parallel Circuit
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3.
- Similar to #2: three bulbs in
vertical branches, each with its own path.
- Wires split and rejoin — multiple paths.
✔ Parallel Circuit
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4.
- Three bulbs in a
single row, but connected in a
loop with no branching.
- Current goes through all three bulbs in sequence.
- Only one path.
✔ Series Circuit
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5.
- Two bulbs connected
side by side, but both connected directly across the battery.
- Wires split before the bulbs and join after them.
- Each bulb has its own path.
✔ Parallel Circuit
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6.
- Two bulbs connected
in a loop, with
no branching.
- Wire goes from battery → first bulb → second bulb → back to battery.
- Only one path.
✔ Series Circuit
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7.
- Two bulbs connected
in a line.
- Battery → switch → bulb 1 → bulb 2 → back to battery.
- Single path.
✔ Series Circuit
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8.
- Two bulbs connected
side by side, each with its own path from the battery.
- Wires split into two branches, one for each bulb.
- Both bulbs light up independently.
✔ Parallel Circuit
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✔ Final Answers:
| Number | Type of Circuit |
|--------|---------------------|
| 1 | Series Circuit |
| 2 | Parallel Circuit |
| 3 | Parallel Circuit |
| 4 | Series Circuit |
| 5 | Parallel Circuit |
| 6 | Series Circuit |
| 7 | Series Circuit |
| 8 | Parallel Circuit |
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📝 Summary:
-
Series Circuits: 1, 4, 6, 7
-
Parallel Circuits: 2, 3, 5, 8
> ✔️ Remember: In series, components are in a single path; in parallel, they have separate paths.
Let me know if you'd like this as a printable answer sheet!
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of series and parallel circuits worksheet middle school.
