Series and parallel circuits

What You Need to Know

Construct and check series and parallel circuits using circuit diagrams.
Describe the differences between series and parallel circuits regarding current, potential difference, and total resistance.
Calculate the total resistance of two components in series: $R_{total} = R_1 + R_2$
Explain qualitatively why adding resistors in series increases total resistance while adding them in parallel decreases it.
Calculate currents, potential differences, and resistances in DC series circuits.
Solve problems for circuits involving resistors in series using the concept of equivalent resistance.

Construct and check series and parallel circuits using circuit diagrams.
Describe the differences between series and parallel circuits regarding current, potential difference, and total resistance.
Calculate the total resistance of two components in series: $R_{total} = R_1 + R_2$
Explain qualitatively why adding resistors in series increases total resistance while adding them in parallel decreases it.
Calculate currents, potential differences, and resistances in DC series circuits.
Solve problems for circuits involving resistors in series using the concept of equivalent resistance.