Circuit Notes

1
Circuit Notes
2
Electric Circuit

• A circuit is a complete, closed path through
  which electric charges flow (circle).
• Parts of a circuit
• load device that uses
• electrical energy
• energy source battery or outlet
• wire - connector

3
Opening and closing a circuit

• Switch when closed, the electricity flows
• when open, the electricity in that circuit
  stops because it isnt complete

4

• Load 3. wire
• Energy source 4. switch
• 5. Circuit
• A device that uses electricity
• A device that can open and close to allow
  electrical current to flow or stop
• A conductive piece that connects a circuit
• A complete closed path that allows electricity to
  flow
• A device that provides electricity

5

• Load 3. wire
• Energy source 4. switch
• 5. Circuit

A
B
C
F
E
D
6
Types of Circuits

• Series - a circuit in which all parts are
  connected in a single loop or branch

7
Characteristics of a Series Circuit

• All loads must be working for the circuit to
  work.
• Every load reduces the amount of current going to
  all the loads (add a bulb, they all get dimmer).
• All loads share the same current so they all have
  the same brightness.
• Easy to wire.

8
Examples of Series Circuits

• 1. The automatic doors at the grocery store.
• 2. Very old Christmas lights where one bulb goes
  out and they all do.
• 3. Bank and home alarms
• 4. Computer circuits.

9
Parallel Circuit

• Is a circuit in which different loads are located
  on separate branches.

10
Characteristics of Parallel Circuits

• More difficult to wire.
• 2. Each branch functions by itself so if one load
  fails, the loads on other branches still work.
• 3. Each branch has a full amount of current so
  the loads on that branch receive the full amount.
  (Each light bulb is as bright as the others).

11
Examples of Parallel Circuits

• Your house
• Current Christmas Lights
• Car lights and radio

12
(1) Series or (2) Parallel

1. Loads are wired on multiple branches
2. Loads are wired on a single branch or loop
3. If one load goes out all the loads go out
4. Light in your house
5. If one load goes out all the others still work
6. Home alarms
7. Computer circuits
8. All loads are just as bright as the others
9. One load brighter than the others

13
(1) Series or (2) Parallel
A
B