All Flashcards
What are the key differences between series and parallel circuits?
Series: Single path for current, current is the same through all components, voltage is shared. Parallel: Multiple paths for current, voltage is the same across all branches, current is divided.
What is a circuit?
A closed loop where electrical current flows.
Define Kirchhoff's Loop Rule (KVL).
The sum of voltage drops around a closed loop equals the sum of voltage gains; the total voltage change around any closed loop is zero.
What is a voltage drop?
Energy used by components in a circuit, such as resistors.
What is a voltage gain?
Energy supplied by a source in a circuit, such as a battery.
What is a series circuit?
A circuit where current flows through each component one after the other along a single path.
What is a parallel circuit?
A circuit where current splits and flows through different branches.
What are the steps to applying Kirchhoff's Loop Rule?
- Draw the circuit. 2. Choose a loop. 3. Assign currents. 4. Follow the loop, noting voltage gains (+) and drops (-). 5. Set up the equation: Sum the voltages and set equal to zero. 6. Solve for unknowns.