310102e Parallel Resistive Circuits 2017 (TF)

Parallel Circuit

A circuit with more than one branch running across the same source voltage, allowing current to flow through multiple paths.

Voltage Source

A component that provides the potential difference needed for current to flow in a circuit.

Kirchhoff’s Current Law

The principle stating that the total current entering a junction equals the total current leaving that junction.

Ohm's Law

A fundamental relationship in electronics, stating that the current through a conductor between two points is directly proportional to the voltage across the two points.

Current Divider Principle

A formula used to determine the distribution of current in a parallel circuit, stating that current is inversely proportional to resistance.

Total Resistance in Parallel Circuits

Calculated using the reciprocal formula: 1/RT = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3.

Effects of Open Circuits

In a parallel circuit, if one branch is disconnected, total current decreases by the amount that was flowing through that branch.

Reciprocal Sum Formula

The formula used to determine total resistance in a parallel circuit, considering the reciprocals of individual resistances.

Branch Voltage

In a parallel circuit, the voltage drop across each branch equals the supply voltage.

Current in Parallel Circuits

The total current in a parallel circuit is the sum of the currents in each branch (IT = I1 + I2 + I3...).