An electric circuit with only one path through which charge can flow is called a

Prepare for your Electricity and Magnetism Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question comes with hints and explanations. Ace your exam!

Multiple Choice

An electric circuit with only one path through which charge can flow is called a

Explanation:
When there’s only one path for charge to flow, the components must all be connected in a line so the same current passes through each one in sequence. This arrangement is called a series circuit. In a series circuit, the current is the same through every element, and the voltages across the elements add up to the total supply voltage; the total resistance is the sum of the individual resistances. If this single path is broken, the current stops everywhere. A parallel circuit, by contrast, provides multiple paths for current to split between branches. A battery is the energy source, and a switch is just a device that opens or closes the path.

When there’s only one path for charge to flow, the components must all be connected in a line so the same current passes through each one in sequence. This arrangement is called a series circuit. In a series circuit, the current is the same through every element, and the voltages across the elements add up to the total supply voltage; the total resistance is the sum of the individual resistances. If this single path is broken, the current stops everywhere. A parallel circuit, by contrast, provides multiple paths for current to split between branches. A battery is the energy source, and a switch is just a device that opens or closes the path.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy