Parallel Circuits

Does this circuit have one or two paths?

• one path

• two paths

Is this circuit a series or parallel circuit?

• series

• parallel

In a parallel circuit, each device

• shares electrical pressure

• gets the full electrical pressure

If another bulb is added in a parallel circuit, each bulb would

• stay the same

• get dimmer

In a parallel circuit which of the following is the same value throughout the circuit?

• Voltage

• Current

• Resistance

• Charge

Each load can be individually controlled in a

• series circuit

• parallel circuit

In homes, schools and factories, circuits are wired in

• series

• parallel

How are components connected in a parallel circuit?

• All the components are connected in a single loop

• Parallel circuits do not contain components

• The components are not connected at all

• Each component is connected on a different branch

Answer explanation

In a parallel circuit, components are connected on different branches.  There are multiple paths for current to flow. 

Which statement correctly describes the current in a parallel circuit?

• The total current into a junction equals the total current out of a junction

• The total current into a junction is less than the total current out of a junction

• The total current into a junction is more than the total current out of a junction

• The current is the same in all parts of the circuit

Answer explanation

The total current into the junction equals the total current out of that junction.  

4A = 2A + 2A 

What happens when the switch is closed? 

• Only the bottom lamp turns on

• Both lamps turn on at the same time

• Only the top lamp turns on

• The top lamp turns on and then the bottom lamp turns on

Answer explanation

Current flows through both branches of the parallel circuit. Both lamps turn on at the same time. 

Tags

NGSS.MS-ETS1-1