Series and parallel circuits

What are series circuits?

If one of the components is broken, then all the components will stop working.

What is potential difference in series circuit?

The total p.d. of the supply is shared between components.

total V = V1 + V2

What is current in a series circuit?

Wherever the ammeter is placed in a series circuit the reading is the same.

What is resistance like in a series circuit?

The resistance will add up to make the total resistance.

What are parallel circuits?

Much more common - if one component stops working, it will not affect the others. This means they are more useful.

What is potential difference in a parallel circuit like?

The same for all components.

What is current in a parallel circuit like?

The total current is the total of all the currents through all the components.

What is resistance like in a parallel circuit?

Adding resistances reduces the total resistance.