a separate series loop in a parallel circuit

a property of materials that makes it harder for current to flow

a measure of how 'hard' an electric field can push charge

a type of circuit in which there are two or more separate branches

Analysing parallel circuits

Combined science

In the Circuit components unit, they will build on this knowledge to learn how the resistance of filament lamps and diodes change with current and about the properties and applications of light dependent resistors and thermistors.

In the Resistance and parallel circuits unit, pupils learnt about electrical resistance and parallel electric circuits.

This unit covers static electricity, electric fields, and current flow in series and parallel circuits. It explains current, resistance, and potential difference relationships and explores diodes, thermistors, and LDRs. The focus is on calculations, experiments, and accurate measurements.

Electric fields and circuit calculations

The diagram shows a circuit with parallel branches. Which of the following quantities must be the same for every branch?

What is the missing current in the parallel circuit shown?

In the circuit shown, the two resistors are identical and the p.d. across the battery is 6 V. The potential difference across the resistor on the left is {{}} V.

In the circuit shown, the potential difference across the resistor is {{}} V.

What is the resistance of the resistor in the circuit shown?

In the circuit shown, the potential difference across the lamp is {{}} V.

How many parallel branches does the circuit shown have?

The current through the first lamp increases.

The current through the first lamp decreases.

The current through the first lamp stays the same.

A series circuit contains a battery and one lamp. A second, identical lamp is added, in parallel with the first lamp. Which of the following statements is correct?

The current through the battery increases.

The current through the battery decreases.

The current through the battery stays the same.

The total resistance of the circuit increases.

The total resistance of the circuit decreases.

The total resistance of the circuit stays the same.

What potential difference is needed to make a current of 2.0 A flow through a 10 Ω resistor?

A lamp in a circuit has a potential difference 1.5 V across it and a current 3.0 A flowing through it. What is the resistance of the lamp?

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Analysing parallel circuits

Lesson outcome

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.