Education Journalist | Study Abroad Lead
An electric circuit is a closed circular loop in which electrons travel and produce electric current. The basic components of an electric circuit include a battery, a switch, a light bulb and conducting wires. Types of circuits include five major classifications: Close Circuit, Open Circuit, Short Circuit, Series Circuit, and Parallel Circuit.
- Electrical circuits manage energy storage, transmission, and conversion.
- Energy enters through sources (thermal, chemical, etc.) and exits through sinks.
- Sources convert energy to electricity; sinks reverse the process.
- Electrical charge transports energy within the circuit.
- Magnetic and electric fields facilitate energy transport in the circuit.
- There are different types of circuits such as series, star-delta, parallel, linear, unilateral, bilateral, non-linear, closed, open, series-parallel, DC and AC.
- The components of electric circuits work together so current can flow at specific resistance and voltage.
- The electric circuit types include a range of circuit configurations serving distinct purposes.
| Table of Content |
Key Terms: Close Circuit, Open Circuit, Short Circuit, Series Circuit, Parallel Circuit, Current, Electricity, Energy Conversion, Resistance
Types of Circuits
[Click Here for Sample Questions]
In an electrical circuit, the elements are properly organized for the storage, conversion, and transmission of energy. It is a combination of wires, load or resistance, and a switch.
There are various sources of energy in an electrical circuit – photocell or electric generator, battery and thermocouple. In an electrical circuit, the energy enters via one or more sources and exits via one or more sinks.
There are various types of electric circuits. Some of them are as follows:
- Series Circuit
- Parallel Circuit
- Series-Parallel Circuit
- Unilateral Circuits
- Bi-lateral Circuits
- Star-Delta Circuit
- DC Circuit
- AC Circuit
- Linear Circuit
- Non-linear Circuit
- Closed Circuit
- Open Circuit
The video below explains this:
Types of Circuits Detailed Video Explanation:
Also Read:
Series Circuit
[Click Here for Sample Questions]
A series circuit is a type of electric circuit in which resistances are connected one after the other in the form of a series. This type of connection is also known as an end-to-end connection or a cascade connection. In a series circuit, the flow of current follows a single path.
Series Circuit
Properties of Series Circuit
Here are some properties of the series circuit:
- In a series circuit, there is only one pathway for the flow of electric current.
- The same amount of current travels through every resistance.
- The supply voltage (V) is equal to the sum of the individual voltage dips (or sags) across the resistances.
V = V1 + V2 + V3 + …..+ Vn
- The equivalent electrical resistance is equal to the sum of the individual resistances.
- The equivalent resistance is the greatest of all the individual resistances.
R > R1, R > R2,….., R > Rn
- In a series of connected bulbs, if one bulb goes out, all bulbs will be extinguished.
- An example of the series circuit includes water heaters, freezers, table lamps, etc.
Parallel Circuit
[Click Here for Sample Questions]
A parallel circuit is a type of circuit in which a number of resistances are linked across each other in such a way that one terminal of each resistance is connected to form a junction point while the remaining end is also connected to form another point. A parallel circuit has branched components. So, the current gets divided into branches. The current gets distributed in the branches and only some amount of current flows through all resistances of the total current.
Parallel Circuit
Properties of Parallel Circuit
Here are some properties of the parallel circuit:
- In a parallel circuit, each component has the same voltage across its terminals.
- In this type of circuit, the total current gets distributed into the number of paths equal to the number of parallel resistances.
- The aggregate current is always equal to the sum of all individual currents.
I = I1 + I2 + I3 + ……+ In
- The reciprocal of a parallel circuit’s equivalent resistance is equal to the sum of the reciprocals of the individual resistances.
- Parallel circuits offer a lower total resistance compared to series circuits.
- As more branches are added, the overall resistance decreases.
- The equivalent resistance is the smallest of all the resistances.
R < R1, R < R2, ….., R < Rn
- The equivalent conductance is calculated by adding the single conductance.
- If one component of a parallel circuit fails or is removed, the others continue to function.
- Identifying and fixing issues in parallel circuits is often simpler than in series circuits, as individual components can be isolated
Other Types of Circuits
[Click Here for Sample Questions]
Here’s a list of some other types of circuits and their descriptions:
Star-Delta Circuit
In a star-delta circuit, the electrical elements are connected in a way that the circuit cannot be defined in terms of series, parallel and series-parallel configuration. This type of circuit is only solved by using the Star Delta or Delta Star Transformation.
Star-Delta Circuit
Linear Circuit
A linear circuit is defined as an electric circuit in which circuit parameters such as resistance, capacitance, inductance, waveform, frequency, etc. are constant. In other words, a linear circuit is one whose parameters remain unchanged with respect to Current and Voltage.
Linear Circuit
Non-Linear Circuit
An electric circuit whose parameters change with respect to current and voltage is known as a non-linear circuit. In a non-linear circuit, the circuit parameters (resistance, capacitance, inductance, frequency, waveform, etc.) are not constant.
Non-Linear Circuit
Unilateral Circuits
In unilateral circuits, the circuit’s property varies with the change of direction of supply voltage or current. The current flows in only one direction in a unilateral circuit. Example: Diode rectifier as it does not perform rectification in both directions of supply.
Unilateral Circuits
Bi-lateral Circuits
The circuit in which the circuit’s property does not vary with the change of direction of supply voltage or current is known as a bi-lateral circuit. The current flows in both directions in the bilateral circuit. Example: Transmission line.
Bi-lateral Circuits
The other types of electrical circuits are as follows –
- Digital Circuit uses discrete digital signals, representing data in binary form (0s and 1s).
- Analogue Circuit processes continuous signals, representing information with varying voltage levels.
- A Combinational Logic Circuit performs logical operations using inputs to produce specific outputs, crucial in digital circuit design.
- An Electronic Oscillator circuit generates continuous waveforms, fundamental in producing frequencies for various applications.
- Short Circuit circuit has undesired connection creating low resistance, often causing excessive current flow.
- Closed Circuit has a complete path for current flow, enabling electrical devices to function.
- Direct Current has a unidirectional flow of electric charge, typical in batteries and most electronic systems.
- An Electrical Network has interconnected components facilitating the transmission of electrical signals or power.
- Active Circuit employs a power source for signal amplification or processing.
- Passive Circuit lacks a power source, relying on resistors, capacitors, and inductors for signal manipulation.
- Equivalent Circuit is a simplified representation of a complex circuit, maintaining similar electrical characteristics.
Parts of Circuits
[Click Here for Sample Questions]
The key parts of an electric circuit are –
- A node is a point or junction where two or more elements (resistor, capacitor, inductor etc.) of a circuit meet.
- The part or section of a circuit that connects two junctions is referred to as a branch. One or more elements can be connected in a branch.
- A loop is defined as a closed path in a circuit where more than two meshes are found.
- Mesh refers to a closed loop that does not contain other loops within it or a path that contains no other paths.
- The power Source provides energy for the circuit.
- Conductors allow the flow of electric current (usually wires).
- Switches control the circuit's on/off state.
- Resistors limit and control the flow of current.
- Capacitors store and release electrical energy.
- Inductors store energy in a magnetic field.
- Diodes allow current flow in one direction.
- Transistors act as amplifiers or switches.
Uses of Electrical Circuits
The uses of electric circuits in daily life are as follows –
- Electric circuits power lighting systems in homes, offices, and public spaces.
- Everyday devices like smartphones, TVs, and computers use electric circuits.
- Electric circuits enable communication devices, such as phones and the Internet.
- Household appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, and microwaves function through electric circuits.
- Electric circuits are useful in security systems, including alarms and surveillance cameras.
Also Read:
Difference Between Series and Parallel Connection
[Click Here for Sample Questions]
| Series | Parallel |
|---|---|
| In a series circuit, the current pathway is single. | In a parallel circuit, the current pathway is parallel. |
| The similar current runs across all the components. | All the components have the same potential difference. |
| The sum of the potential dips across each component is equal to the electromotive force (EMF) of the source. | The sum of the currents that flow into any point in the circuit is equal to the sum of the currents that flow out of that point. |
Things to Remember
- Series Circuit components are connected end-to-end, allowing equal current through each resistance.
- Parallel Circuit resistances are connected in parallel, sharing the same voltage.
- The series-parallel circuit combines series and parallel connections, useful for diverse voltage and current requirements from a single source.
- Star-Delta Circuit components are interconnected in a complex manner.
- A closed circuit allows an uninterrupted flow of electrons from a negative to a positive terminal.
- An Open Circuit has an interrupted path for electrons, leading to an incomplete circuit and preventing current flow.
- In a DC Circuit, Direct Current flows in a single direction, maintaining a constant amperage.
Sample Questions
Ques. What is an electric circuit? Distinguish between an open and a closed circuit. (4 Marks) [CBSE (All India) 2009, 2010, 2011]
Ans. Electric Circuit:
An electric circuit is a closed conducting path containing a source of electric energy (i.e., a cell or a battery) and a device or element or load (say, an electric bulb) utilizing the electric energy.
The direction of electric current is opposite to the direction of the flow of electrons in the conductor.
Open Electric Circuit: An electric circuit through which no electric current flows is known as open electric circuit.
The electric circuit shown in figure 10 (A) will be an open circuit if the plug of the key is taken out or if the connecting wire breaks from any point.
Open and a closed circuit
Closed Circuit: An electric circuit through which electric current flows continuously is known as closed circuit (Figure 10 (B)).
Ques. How can you create a series circuit? (2 Marks)
Ans. A series circuit can be created by connecting light bulbs in such a way that there is a single path for the flow of charge. Also, in a series circuit, the bulbs are connected in the same line with no branching point.
Ques. A wire of given material having length l and area of cross-section A has a resistance of 4 Ω. What would be the resistance of another wire of the same material having length l/2 and area of cross-section 2A? (3 Marks)
Ans. For 1st wire, R1 = ρ (l/A)
= 4 Ω
Then, for 2nd wire, R2 = ρ (l/2)/2A
R2 = 1/4 ρ l/A
= 1/4 R1
R2 = 1 Ω
Ques. What is a parallel circuit? Mention the disadvantages of a parallel circuit. (3 Marks)
Ans. A parallel circuit is defined as the circuit in which a number of resistances are linked across each other in such a way that one terminal of each resistance is connected to form a junction point while the remaining end is also connected to form another point.
Disadvantages:
- In a parallel circuit, more wiring is needed.
- This type of circuit is more robust than a series circuit therefore they cost more.
- As the number of wires are more the magnetic fields also increase.
Ques. Calculate the total resistance and total current flowing in the circuit when R1 = 10 Ω, R2 = 40 Ω, R3 = 30 Ω, R4 = 20 Ω, R5 = 60 Ω and a 12 V battery is connected to the arrangement. (5 Marks)
Ans. Let us replace R1 & R2 by R’ and R3, R4 & R5 by R’’
1/RP = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3
After substituting the values in the above equation we get:
1/R’ = 1/10 + 1/40
= 5/40
= 8 Ω
Similarly,
1/R’’ = 1/30 + 1/20 + 1/60
= 6/60
= 10 Ω
Hence, total resistance, R = R’ + R’’
= 8 + 10
= 18 Ω
For calculating current, we will use Ohm's law.
I = V/R
= 12/18
= 0.67 A
Ques. Suppose there are three resistors R1, R2 & R3 with values 5 Ω, 10 Ω & 30 Ω connected to a battery of 12 V. What will be the total resistance and total current in the circuit? (5 Marks)
Ans. R1 = 5 Ω, R2 = 10 Ω & R3 = 30 Ω
V = 12 V
According to Ohm’s law:
The current I1 through R1 = V/R1
The current I2 through R2 = V/R2
The current I3 through R3 = V/R3
So the total current will be:
I = I1 + I2 + I3
= (2.4 + 1.2 + 0.4) A
= 4 A
Total resistance RP will be:
1/RP = 1/5 + 1/10 + 1/30
= 1/3
RP = 3 Ω
Ques. What is a basic circuit? (3 marks)
Ans. A basic circuit is a closed path or loop through which electric current can flow. It typically consists of essential components:
- Source of Energy (Battery): Provides the electrical potential for the flow of current.
- Conducting Wires: Connect the components and allow the flow of electric current.
- Switch: Controls the flow of current by opening or closing the circuit.
- Load (e.g., Light Bulb): Consumes electrical energy and demonstrates the operation of the circuit.
These components work together to create a functional circuit where electrical current can flow from the source, through the connected components, and back to the source, completing the loop.
Ques. What is an incomplete circuit? (3 marks)
Ans. An incomplete circuit is a circuit in which the path for the flow of electric current is interrupted or incomplete.
- In other words, the circuit is not closed, preventing the flow of current from the power source to the load (user).
- Incomplete circuits result in a discontinuity, and electric current cannot complete the loop to power the connected devices or components.
- This lack of continuity can occur when a switch is open, a wire is disconnected, or there is a break in the circuit path, preventing the current from reaching its intended destination.
Ques. What is the difference between an open circuit and a closed circuit? (5 marks)
Ans. The main difference between an open circuit and a closed circuit lies in the completeness of the electrical path:
Open Circuit:
- An open circuit is a circuit where there is a gap or break in the path, and the electrical current cannot flow through.
- In an open circuit, the electrical contacts are not connected, so the circuit is incomplete.
- When a circuit is open, the flow of electric current is interrupted, and devices in the circuit do not receive power.
Closed Circuit:
- A closed circuit is a complete, unbroken loop through which an electrical current can flow.
- In a closed circuit, all the electrical components are connected, providing a continuous path for the current.
- Devices in a closed circuit can operate because the electric current can flow through the entire loop.
An open circuit has a gap or break in the path, preventing current flow, while a closed circuit forms an uninterrupted loop, allowing current to flow and power devices within the circuit.
Ques. What are the two types of electric circuit? (5 marks)
Ans. The two main types of electric circuits are series circuits and parallel circuits.
Series Circuit:
- In a series circuit, all components are connected end-to-end in a single path.
- The same current flows through each component because there is only one pathway.
- The total resistance in a series circuit is the sum of the individual resistances.
- If one component fails (opens), the entire circuit is interrupted.
Parallel Circuit:
- In a parallel circuit, components are connected in multiple paths, or branches.
- Each component has its own separate branch, and the voltage across each component is the same.
- The total current is the sum of the currents through each branch.
- If one component fails (opens), the others can still function because there are alternative pathways for the current.
For Latest Updates on Upcoming Board Exams, Click Here:https://t.me/class_10_12_board_updates
Also Read:
Comments