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## Parallel Circuit * **In a parallel circuit, two or more bulbs are connected separately to the same terminal of a battery. As a result, the bulbs are parallel to each other.** **Important** * All bulbs glow brightly because each is getting the full voltage from the cell or battery. * However, t...

## Parallel Circuit * **In a parallel circuit, two or more bulbs are connected separately to the same terminal of a battery. As a result, the bulbs are parallel to each other.** **Important** * All bulbs glow brightly because each is getting the full voltage from the cell or battery. * However, together, two bright bulbs take more current than a single bright bulb, so the cell or battery will not last as long. * If one bulb is removed from the parallel circuit, there is still a complete circuit through the other bulb, so it keeps glowing brightly. * The current ($I$) is not the same in all parts of the circuit. The current in each branch will depend on the components in that branch $I_1 ≠ I_2 ≠ I_3$. * You can even have a separate switch for each bulb or other component, in a parallel circuit. * The electricity supply in our homes uses parallel circuits, as do almost all electrical appliances. ## Discuss and Answer * **Why is only one switch needed in a series circuit?** * **What happens when one out of three bulbs fuses in a parallel circuit?** * **What happens when one out of three bulbs fuses in a series circuit?** ## Concept Check Draw a circuit diagram to show: * Connection of 3 bulbs in a series circuit * Connection of 3 bulbs in a parallel circuit ## Do You Know? * A lightning bolt can measure up to 3,000,000 volts and lasts less than one second. That is 27,000 times more than the household outlet.