Components in Series & Parallel CircuitsEdexcel IGCSE Physics: Flashcards

Card 1 of 120 of 12 known

Question

What is the key difference between series and parallel circuits?

Tap or press Space to reveal

Tap card or press Space to flip

See all 12 cards

What is the key difference between series and parallel circuits?: Series: components share one single loop with the same current throughout. Parallel: components are on separate branches, each with the full source voltage.
Why is domestic lighting wired in parallel?: So each light can be switched independently and one bulb failing does not switch off the others.
What two factors does the current in a series circuit depend on?: The applied voltage and the number and nature of the other components.
Describe the I-V graph for a wire or fixed resistor at constant temperature.: A straight line through the origin — current is directly proportional to voltage.
Describe the I-V graph for a filament lamp.: A curve that flattens as voltage increases, because the filament heats up and its resistance rises.
Describe the I-V graph for a diode.: Almost no current in the reverse direction; a sharp rise in current in the forward direction.
What happens to current if resistance increases (voltage fixed)?: The current decreases.
What is a light-dependent resistor (LDR)?: A component whose resistance decreases as light intensity increases.
What is a thermistor?: A component whose resistance decreases as temperature increases.
How does an LDR's resistance change as light gets brighter?: It decreases.
How does a thermistor's resistance change as temperature rises?: It decreases.
How can lamps and LEDs be used in a circuit?: To indicate the presence of current, since they light up when current flows through them.