What Are The Differences Between A Parallel And Series Circuit

By | March 27, 2021



For the average person, understanding the differences between a parallel and series circuit can be perplexing. But knowing the differences between the two types of circuits can help you with all sorts of DIY projects that rely on electricity.

At its most basic level, a parallel circuit has electrical components arranged in such a way that each part is connected to the power source but is independent of one another. If something in the circuit were to fail, the other parts of the circuit would remain functional. This is why holiday lights are almost always wired in parallel - if one bulb goes out, the other bulbs remain lit.

Conversely, a series circuit is composed of a chain of components arranged so that each one is connected back to the power source in a single line. Each component is dependent on the others, which makes it impossible for just one piece to fail, but also means that if one part fails, the entire circuit fails. Appliances like refrigerators usually have series circuits connected, since the failure of any single part would disrupt the entire machine.

When it comes to household wiring, both series and parallel circuits are used for different reasons. Series circuits are ideal for powering motorized appliances that require high amounts of current, like refrigerators and washing machines, whereas parallel circuits are best for lighting fixtures that require less current.

The key thing to remember is that when it comes to regulating the flow of current, series and parallel circuits function differently. While series circuits require that all components in the circuit are operational for the circuit to work, parallel circuits do not - making them ideal for applications where only certain components need to be operational at given times.

Ultimately, getting familiar with the differences between a parallel and series circuit can help you tackle any number of DIY projects involving electricity. Knowing what type of circuit works best for various applications will help you take your projects to the next level and ensure that your wiring is always up to code.


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