A parallel circuit is defined as?

Study for the IGCSE Physics Electricity. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

A parallel circuit is defined as?

Explanation:
In a parallel circuit, current has more than one path to flow. The components are connected across the same two points, so the supply splits the current into several branches. How much current goes through each branch depends on that branch’s resistance, but the voltage across every branch is the same as the source. The total current drawn from the supply is the sum of the currents in all the branches, and adding more branches lowers the overall resistance of the circuit. This setup also means that if one branch is opened or damaged, the others can still carry current and remain lit, which is a common reason people use parallel connections for devices like lights. The other situations described—only one path, no current, or zero resistance—don’t match how a parallel circuit functions.

In a parallel circuit, current has more than one path to flow. The components are connected across the same two points, so the supply splits the current into several branches. How much current goes through each branch depends on that branch’s resistance, but the voltage across every branch is the same as the source. The total current drawn from the supply is the sum of the currents in all the branches, and adding more branches lowers the overall resistance of the circuit. This setup also means that if one branch is opened or damaged, the others can still carry current and remain lit, which is a common reason people use parallel connections for devices like lights. The other situations described—only one path, no current, or zero resistance—don’t match how a parallel circuit functions.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy