CIRCUIT ANALYSIS_UNIT3A_SERIES CIRCUIT

Series Circuit

A circuit with only one current path for current to flow.

Current

The flow of electric charge, calculated as I = V/R according to Ohm's Law.

Total Resistance in Series

The total resistance of a series circuit is equal to the sum of the individual resistances: RT = R1 + R2 + R3 + ... + Rn.

Ohm’s Law

The principle stating that the current through a conductor between two points is directly proportional to the voltage across the two points and inversely proportional to the resistance: I = V/R.

Voltage Divider

A configuration that uses two or more resistors in series to divide the source voltage into smaller voltages.

Kirchhoff’s Voltage Law

The principle that the algebraic sum of all the voltages in a closed loop is equal to zero.

Power in Series Circuits

The total power is the sum of the power dissipated across all resistors: PT = P1 + P2 + P3 + ... + Pn.

Open Circuit

A break in the circuit causing current to cease.

Short Circuit

A condition where the current bypasses part of the circuit, leading to decreased resistance and increased current.

Voltage Source in Series

When connected in series, the total voltage is the algebraic sum of the individual voltages of each source.