Parallel

Definition

Parallel refers to a relationship between two or more entities that exist or occur side-by-side, with a consistent distance or spacing maintained between them. In the context of electrical circuits, parallel describes a configuration where components are connected to the same set of terminals, allowing for multiple paths for current to flow.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In a parallel circuit, the voltage across each component is the same, while the current through each component can vary.
2. The total current in a parallel circuit is the sum of the currents through each individual component.
3. The total resistance of a parallel circuit is less than the resistance of any individual component.
4. Capacitors connected in parallel have their capacitances added together, increasing the total capacitance of the circuit.
5. Parallel circuits provide multiple paths for current, increasing the reliability and flexibility of the overall system.

Review Questions

• Explain the relationship between voltage and current in a parallel circuit configuration.
  • In a parallel circuit, the voltage across each component is the same, as they are all connected to the same set of terminals. However, the current through each component can vary depending on the individual resistance of that component. The total current in the parallel circuit is the sum of the currents through each individual component, as the current can flow through multiple paths.
• Describe how the total resistance of a parallel circuit is calculated and how it differs from a series circuit.
  • The total resistance of a parallel circuit is less than the resistance of any individual component. This is because the current has multiple paths to flow through, effectively reducing the overall resistance of the circuit. The formula to calculate the total resistance of a parallel circuit is: $\frac{1}{R_{total}} = \frac{1}{R_1} + \frac{1}{R_2} + \cdots + \frac{1}{R_n}$. This is in contrast to a series circuit, where the total resistance is the sum of the individual resistances.
• Analyze the impact of connecting capacitors in parallel and how this differs from a series configuration.
  • When capacitors are connected in parallel, their capacitances are added together, resulting in a higher total capacitance. This is because the charge stored in each capacitor is independent, and the voltage across each capacitor is the same. This is different from a series configuration, where the total capacitance is reduced compared to the individual capacitances. Connecting capacitors in parallel is often used to increase the overall capacitance of a circuit, which can be beneficial in applications such as power supply filtering and energy storage.

Related terms

Series: In a series configuration, components are connected end-to-end, forming a single path for current to flow through.

Voltage Divider: A voltage divider is a circuit that uses two or more resistors in parallel to create a desired output voltage by dividing the input voltage.

Kirchhoff's Laws: Kirchhoff's laws describe the relationships between current, voltage, and resistance in electrical circuits, including parallel and series configurations.