Parallel circuit — Science definition
Defined in 2 courses:
- A circuit with multiple paths, where each device can work independently of the others. (Physical Science: Matter, Forces & Energy)
- A circuit with two or more branches, so each branch has the full voltage and the total resistance is less than any one branch. (Physics & Environmental Science)
Where it is taught
- Electricity & Simple Circuits — Energy & Heat Transfer, Physical Science: Matter, Forces & Energy, Grade 8
- Circuits & Ohm's Law — Electricity, Magnetism & Circuits, Physics & Environmental Science, Grade 12
In use
A parallel circuit solves that problem by offering several separate paths at once.
Electricity & Simple Circuits
A parallel circuit gives charge several branches to choose from at once.
Circuits & Ohm's Law
Questions using parallel circuit
Problem 1
Explain the following claim and supply a valid example or counterexample: A series circuit has equal current; a parallel circuit has equal branch voltage.
Answer and explanation
1/R=1/6+1/6=1/3, soR=3ohm; lower than either branch. A series circuit has equal current; a parallel circuit has equal branch voltage.
Response criteria
- State a scientifically accurate conclusion.
- Show the calculation or mechanism that supports it.
- Include units, conditions, or limits where relevant.
Problem 2
In a parallel circuit, if one branch is switched off, the other branches:
- keep working normally
- receive double the voltage
- reverse their current
- all stop working too
Answer and explanation
keep working normally
Each branch of a parallel circuit is independent, so switching one off leaves the others running normally at the same voltage.
Taught alongside
- circuit
- current
- voltage
- resistance
- series circuit
- model
- evidence
- system boundary
- assumption
- Ohm's law
- equivalent resistance
- electrical power