Comparing series and parallel circuits

1. Circuits Series vs Parallel

2. Spot the differences

3. Series Circuit A series circuit is one that connects an electrical source with its components one after another, forming one single loop.

4. Series Circuit There is only one path for the current to flow through. The current flows through the first bulb, then through the next bulb, to light up all the bulbs.

7. Parallel circuit A parallel circuit is one that splits into two or more branches.

8. Parallel circuit There is more than one path for the current to flow through. Some current passes through one bulb and the rest flows through the other bulb.

9. Advantage of Parallel circuits If one of the bulbs is taken out or damaged, the other bulb will still light up. Why? - One part of the circuit is still closed.

11. Arrangement of circuits

12. Lighting at home What kind of circuit is more commonly used? Vote: Series circuit – Raise left hand Parallel circuit – Raise right hand

13. Why use parallel circuit in the household lighting? If one bulb is damaged or switched off, the other bulb can still work.

14. How about your classroom lighting? Parallel circuits