Learn the basic differences between the two fundamental circuits in electrical work, the serial circuit and the parallel circuit. BK Electric Services shows you how resistors play a part in differentiating between the two and how the current is affected by the two types.

1. A Quick Review of Basics

2.  Resistance is how much an object resists the
travel of electrons. It is measured in ohms,
represented as Ω in electrical diagrams.

3.  Now, what part does resistance play in serial and parallel
circuits?
 A serial circuit is designed with resistors aligned end-to-
end.
 The current remains the same through every resistor.
 Total resistance is equal to number of resistors in the serial
circuit
= resistance

4.  Because the current flows on single path ,
the circuit is limited in how many loads it
can effectively power.
 Ex: A single light bulb will shine bright.
 More than one bulb, however and each bulb
will shine less and less electrons go through.

5.  Resistors on a parallel circuit are arranged
side to side with heads and tails facing the
same direction.
 The current breaks up and travels through a
different resistor, reconnecting on the other
end of the circuit.
 The voltage remains the same.
 Total resistance can be found by adding the
reciprocals of the individual resistors then
flipping the total.
R= 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3

6.  There is far more to learn about these
individual circuits, but these are the absolute
basics.
 Want to learn more? Check out our other
presentations or visit us
www.bkelectricservices.com