Parallel Circuits

Physics: Cambridge International GCSE Supplement, topic 4.8.6

Parallel Circuits

In a parallel circuit, components are connected on separate branches of wires to the energy source.

Parallel circuits

  • Circuit components in parallel look like they have their own extra mini-circuit.
  • The current through the battery is larger than the current through each of the individual branches.
  • When the current flows through the battery point A, where the wires split, the current is split between the two branches.

Test yourself on Parallel Circuits

  • Which of these is NOT true of a parallel circuit?

  • Which of the following are true of parallel circuits?

Practise this topic for free