In any circuit, various methods exist to connect different components depending on their uses. The uses may vary according to the load attached to it. Sometimes we need less power, sometimes more power or less current, and sometimes more current, and so on.
In this blog, we will discuss the difference between parallel and series connections, the two most effective ways of connecting to arrange the components to save the current, voltage, and power in a circuit.
Series Connection
When all the components are connected in a way that the end of one component is connected to the start of the other one, then this type of connection is defined as a series connection.
For the viewer, it seems to be a single path consisting of all the components of a circuit. In other words, we can say that a series-connected circuit is an end-to-end connected circuit.
In a series circuit, if one component fails to work, all the connected components will fail, and the device won't work.
Some basic examples of the series connection can be explained by using two or more two resistors connected in a row. When one end of the resistor is connected to the other end of another resistor, and likewise, then the connection formed will be a series connection.
Let us understand it by using a basic circuit consisting of 3 resistors together.
In the above circuit, we can see that three resistors are connected end-to-end. The current (I) flowing in all resistors is the same.
Advantages of Series Connection
The advantages of series connection are:-
All elements will get the same current.
The design is easy to make and is not complex.
Series-connected devices do not overheat quickly.
Disadvantages of Series Connection
The disadvantages of series connection are:-
If one device fails, it will lead to the failure of all the connected devices.
The more devices connected, the more the circuit resistance.
If there is any fault, it is hard to identify and repair.
Parallel Connection
The components are connected across each other's terminal in a parallel connection. In a parallel circuit, the current gets multiple paths to flow through the entire circuit. In simpler words, the same terminals of the electrical component are connected.
If any single component fails, it will not affect the other components of the circuit, and the device will work properly.
Some basic examples of parallel connection can be explained by using two or more than three resistors connected parallel.
In this circuit, the current through all the resistors is different, and the voltage across them will be the same irrespective of the resistance's size.
Advantages of Parallel Connection
The advantages of parallel connection are:-
The voltage across all elements is the same.
Total resistance will not increase as the number of devices increases.
If there is any fault, it is hard to identify and repair.
Disadvantages of Parallel Connection
The disadvantages of parallel connection are:-
The design is very complex in some cases and will require more wire.
We cannot increase the voltage as we desire.
Parallel connected devices overheat easily.
Now, we will see the difference between parallel and series connections.
Difference Between Parallel and Series Connection
The difference between parallel and series connections are:-
Series Connections
Parallel Connections
Devices are connected end-to-end.
Devices are connected across the ends.
Failure of one device affects other devices.
Failure of one device does not affect other devices connected.
Unreliable connection method.
Reliable connection method.
These types of connections are not commonly used in homes.
These types of connections are commonly used in homes.
The current is the same in all the components connected in a row.
Voltage is the same in all the components connected.
A circuit in which elements are arranged in a single path, such that the similar current must flow through all of them with different voltages across every element, is called a Series Circuit.
What is a Parallel Circuit?
Parallel Circuits is a circuit in which elements are in different branches such that currents can flow through each component simultaneously and have the same voltage.
Which type of connection is used in the home and why?
Parallel connection of a circuit is used in-house because, in series connection, they are all connected so that if any of the devices fail, it will block the path failing all devices.
Which type of circuit will produce more current and why?
Series circuits in a circuit will have more current as there is only one path for the current to flow, so it will not be distributed, resulting in more current compared to parallel circuits.
What are examples of parallel and series connections in day-to-day life?
Parallel connections in a circuit are used in common households as they are more reliable, whereas we can see a series of connections in a lightning frill or showrooms by convenience.
Conclusion
Kudos, Ninja, on making it to the finish line of this article! We have learned that series and parallel connections are methods to share common currents and voltages across the circuit.
We hope this blog was helpful to you in understanding the critical difference between parallel and series connections. Do not stop learning! We recommend you read some of our other related articles:
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