2 Circuit Fundamentals Free Online FlashCards

What does a circuit schematic represent?

It shows how components are electrically connected, not the physical shape or placement of the wires.

When are components in series?

They are connected end-to-end in one path, with no branching between them.

When are components in parallel?

Both ends of each component connect to the same two nodes.

What is an open circuit?

It has a break in its conducting path, so no current can flow across the break.

What is equivalent resistance?

It is the resistance of one resistor that could replace a network while producing the same overall voltage–current relationship at its terminals.

What does a junction dot indicate in a circuit diagram?

A junction dot indicates that the wires are connected at that point.

What is true of current through series components?

The same current passes through every component in a series path.

How do you find equivalent resistance for series resistors?

Add the individual resistances: $R_{\text{eq}}=R_1+R_2+\cdots+R_n$.

How do voltage and current behave in parallel branches?

Each branch has the same voltage across it, while current divides among the branches.

How do you find equivalent resistance for parallel resistors?

Add the reciprocals: $\frac{1}{R_{\text{eq}}}=\frac{1}{R_1}+\frac{1}{R_2}+\cdots+\frac{1}{R_n}$.

How does a parallel equivalent resistance compare with each branch resistance?

It is always less than the smallest individual resistance because the added branch provides another path for current.

What happens when one branch of a parallel circuit is open?

The open branch stops conducting, but other complete parallel branches may still carry current.