Series versus parallel circuits

• To understand the properties of resistors in series and in parallel
• To create simple circuits with resistors in series and parallel

Ohm’s law. Ohm’s law states that the voltage applied across a circuit generates a current and that the latter is inversely proportional to the resistance of the circuit.

From this general law we learn the relation of proportionality between voltage and current: the ratio V/I gives always the same value R.

Resistor in series. When resistors are connected in series the overall resistance is the sum of the resistances of the resistors.

Resistors in parallel. When resistors are connected in parallel, current I splits, flowing partially through resistance 1 (I1) and partially through resistance 2 (I2), as shown with arrows.

• Digital multimeter — 2275.10
• Resistors (100, 220, 470 Ω ) — 4763.18-20-24
• Resistors (1, 4.7, 10 K Ω ) — 4763.26-32-34
• Ammeter — 4762.62
• Stackable plug lead, 50 cm, black colour, plug 4mm — 2522.08
• Stackable plug lead, 50 cm, red colour, plug 4mm — 2522.03
• Board for electricity and electronics systems — 4762.02
• Two cell holder — 4762.28
• Push button switch — 4762.70
• Crocodile clips — 2531.52
• Bridging plug — 4762.20

• What application of a series (parallel) circuits do you know from your everyday experience? What different behaviour of these circuits can you notice?