Science Quiz: Circuits and Electricity

Which of the following is NOT true for a series circuit?

• Current remains consistent throughout the circuit.

• An open switch results in the failure of current flow.

• Voltage remains consistent throughout the circuit.

• Current running through one follows a single pathway.

Answer explanation

As current in a series circuit follows a single pathway, it remains consistent. Voltage - the electromotive force that drive current - divides among the components across the circuit, according the resistance exerted by each.

Which of the following values remains consistent in a parallel circuit?

• current

• voltage

• resistance

• all of the above

Answer explanation

In a parallel circuit, all components are unique connected to the power source and, hence, receive the same voltage/current-driving force. Current, on the other hand, splits among the various pathways.

What instrument does this symbol represent?

• voltmeter

• resistor

• diode

• ammeter

Which of the following symbols represent a resistor?

• 
• 
• 
• 

What quantity is measured by the instrument represented by this symbol?

Answer explanation

This symbol represents a voltmeter.

True or False: Christmas lights are an example of series circuits being utilised. Type 'T' for True and 'F' for False.

Answer explanation

Christmas/decorative lights are generally connected in a single loop, with each light wired to its preceding and succeeding counterpart. Consequently, a blown light leads to the failure of all lights.

True or False: Total resistance in a parallel circuit is the sum of all the branched resistances. Type 'T' for True and 'F' for False.

Answer explanation

Net resistance decreases in parallel as it is spread across multiple pathways. The higher the number of pathways, the lower total resistance is - as seen by the formula.

True or False: The instrument represented by this symbol can affect the flow of current in a parallel circuit.

Answer explanation

The symbol shown in the question is a bulb. The state of a bulb (working or not) in a parallel circuit does not affect the flow of current due to the existence of its multiple pathways.

Which of the following scenarios make use of static electricity?

• lightning

• starting a car

• power lines

• phone chargers

Answer explanation

Lightning is caused by a buildup of static electricity inside a storm cloud. Moving around inside the cloud are tiny water molecules called hydrometeors. These hydrometeors are colliding and bumping into each other—creating a static electric charge.

Which of the following is NOT true regarding static electricity?

• It occurs due to an imbalance of positive and negative charges.

• It is initiated by a buildup of electrons.

• It involves insulators.

• It requires a circuit.

Answer explanation

Static electricity does not require a circuit medium for the flow of electrons. It occurs naturally from a electrical imbalance (positive/negative inequality).