Definition: A series circuit is a circuit in which the components are connected end - to - end, so that the same current flows through each component. There is only one path for the current to follow.
Components: For example, if you have resistors,, andin a series circuit, the total resistance. The currentthrough the circuit is given by, whereis the applied voltage.
Applications: Christmas tree lights are often wired in series. If one bulb burns out, the entire string of lights goes out because the circuit is broken.
Parallel Circuit
Definition: In a parallel circuit, the components are connected across each other, so that the voltage across each component is the same. The current is divided among the different paths.
Components: If you have resistors,, andin parallel, the reciprocal of the total resistanceis given by. The voltage across each resistor is equal to the applied voltage, and the current through each resistor is,,, and the total current.
Applications: Household electrical outlets are wired in parallel. This allows different appliances to be plugged in and operate independently at the same voltage.
Series - Parallel Circuit
Definition: A combination of series and parallel circuits. Some components are connected in series with each other, and these series combinations are then connected in parallel with other components or series combinations.
Components: Consider a circuit where resistorsandare in series, and this combination is in parallel with resistor. First, find the equivalent resistance ofandin series (). Then find the equivalent resistance of this series combination in parallel withusing the formula for parallel resistors.
Applications: Complex electrical systems like the wiring in a car's electrical system often use series - parallel combinations to achieve the desired voltage and current distributions.
Open Circuit
Definition: An open circuit is a circuit in which the current path is broken. There is an infinite resistance in an open circuit, and no current can flow.
Components: This can occur due to a broken wire, a disconnected component, or an open switch. The voltage across the open part of the circuit is equal to the applied voltage.
Applications: An open circuit is not a desired state for a functional circuit but is used in some cases for safety, such as in a circuit breaker that opens the circuit when there is an overload or short - circuit to prevent damage.
Closed Circuit
Definition: A closed circuit is a complete circuit through which current can flow. The components are connected in such a way that there is a continuous path for the electrons to move.
Components: All the necessary components like a power source, conductors, and load are properly connected. The current is determined by the resistance of the load and the voltage of the power source.
Applications: Any operating electrical device represents a closed circuit. For example, a laptop that is turned on has a closed circuit through which electricity flows to power the various components.
Short Circuit
Definition: A short circuit occurs when a low - resistance path is created between two points in a circuit that are not supposed to be directly connected. This causes a large amount of current to flow through the short - circuit path.
Components: It can happen due to a damaged wire insulation that causes two conductors to touch, or a faulty component that creates a direct connection between two points. The resistance in a short - circuit path is very low, so the currentbecomes very large, which can damage components and cause overheating.
Applications: Fuses and circuit breakers are used to protect circuits from the damage caused by short - circuits. When a short - circuit occurs, the fuse blows or the circuit breaker trips to open the circuit and stop the excessive current flow.
AC Circuit (Alternating Current Circuit)
Definition: An AC circuit is a circuit in which the current and voltage vary sinusoidally with time. The direction of the current changes periodically.
Components: It contains components like resistors, capacitors, and inductors. The behavior of these components in an AC circuit is different from that in a DC circuit. For example, a capacitor in an AC circuit allows the flow of alternating current due to the continuous charging and discharging process. The impedanceof an AC circuit is a measure of the opposition to the flow of AC current and is a function of the resistance, inductive reactance, and capacitive reactance.
Applications: Most of the power distribution systems in our homes and industries use AC circuits. Electrical motors, transformers, and many household appliances like refrigerators and air conditioners operate on AC power.
DC Circuit (Direct Current Circuit)
Definition: A DC circuit is a circuit in which the current flows in only one direction. The voltage is constant over time.
Components: It consists of components such as batteries (as a DC power source), resistors, and diodes (which allow current to flow in only one direction). The relationship between voltage, current, and resistanceis given by Ohm's law.
Applications: Batteries - powered devices like mobile phones, flashlights, and electric vehicles use DC circuits. Electronic circuits inside computers and other digital devices also mainly use DC power, which is usually obtained from AC - to - DC converters.
