6) Parallel Circuits:

1. Parallel Circuits Basics

• Definition: Components are connected separately to the positive and negative terminals of the power supply.

• Independence: Disconnecting one component does not affect the others.

• Use: Common in household electrics and car circuits, where each component can be controlled independently.

2. Potential Difference in Parallel Circuits

• Same Pd: Every component has the same potential difference across it, equal to the source pd.

• Effect: Identical bulbs in parallel will shine with equal brightness.

3. Current in Parallel Circuits

• Shared Current: The total current is the sum of currents through each branch.

• Junctions: At any junction, the current entering equals the current leaving.

• Identical Branches: If branches are identical, each branch will carry the same current.

4. Resistance in Parallel Circuits

• Decreases with Added Resistors: Total resistance decreases when resistors are added in parallel.

• Explanation: Each added path allows more current to flow, which reduces overall resistance.