In a series circuit, current has no choice but to follow a single path through components like lamps. A single switch can control all lamps, and adding more lamps reduces brightness. In a parallel circuit, current can split and follow multiple paths, so a switch controls individual lamps and adding lamps does not affect brightness. Series and parallel circuits differ in how switches function and how additional lamps are affected.

1. circuit symbols

2. symbols review

4. a series circuit A series circuit is one where the current has “no choice” as to which “path” to follow. There are no junctions in a series circuit.

5. switches in a series circuit A single switch will control all the lamps in a series circuit.

6. adding lamps to a series circuit Adding extra lamps to a series circuit reduces their brightness.

7. a parallel circuit A parallel circuit is one where the current has a “choice” as to “which path” to follow.

8. switches in a parallel circuit A switch in a parallel circuit can control a single lamp.

9. switches in a parallel circuit A switch in a parallel circuit can control all the lamps.

10. adding lamps to a parallel circuit Adding extra lamps to a parallel circuit does not reduce their brightness.