Knowing Parallel Circuit, Characteristics, Advantages, and Examples of Use

In the world of electricity, an understanding of various types of circuits is essential for designing efficient and safe electrical systems. One type of electrical circuit that is often used in various applications is a parallel circuit. Parallel circuits have different characteristics from series circuits and are widely applied in household, industrial, and electronic device electrical installations. This article will discuss in detail about the meaning, characteristics, advantages, disadvantages, and formulas used to calculate parallel circuits.

Definition of Parallel Circuit

Parallel circuit is a type of electrical circuit whose components are arranged in a row so as to form a branch between the electric current sources. In a parallel circuit, all components get the same voltage, but the electric current flowing can vary depending on the resistance value of each component.

Characteristics of Parallel Circuit

Some of the characteristics of parallel circuits are:

1. Same Voltage in Each Component

The voltage received by each component in a parallel circuit is the same as the source voltage. Each component gets a consistent voltage.

2. Current Divided into Each Branch

The electric current in a parallel circuit is divided into each branch, according to the resistance value of each component. Components with low resistance receive more current, while components with high resistance receive less current.

3. Components Connected in Parallel

Each component in a parallel circuit is connected in parallel, thus each has its own path and is directly connected to the power source.

4. Other Components will not be Affected If One Component is Damaged

If one of the components in a parallel circuit breaks or is damaged, the other components continue to function, because the current is not interrupted on the other branches.

5. Total Current is the Sum of the Currents of Each Branch

The total current flowing in a parallel circuit is the sum of the currents flowing through each branch.

Advantages of Parallel Circuit

Some of the advantages of parallel circuits include:

• Stable Voltage: The voltage on each component remains the same as the source voltage, thus the components can function optimally.
• Reliable: If one component is damaged, the other components keep functioning because the electric current is not interrupted.
• Flexible: It is easy to add or remove components without affecting the overall electrical system.
• Efficient: Distribution of electric current equally, causing components to operate normally without being affected by other components.

Disadvantages of Parallel Circuit

Some disadvantages of parallel circuits include:

• Larger Total Current: The total current flowing is greater, requiring conductors and some components of greater capacity.
• More Cable Usage: Parallel circuits require more wiring and components, making them more complicated and expensive
• Complex Calculations: Current calculations are more complicated as they involve multiple branches with different resistances.
• Waste of Power: If too many branches are added, it may cause power wastage or electric current imbalance.

Examples of Parallel Circuit Usage

The following are examples of the use of parallel circuits in everyday life:

Home Lighting System

Lights at home are usually connected in parallel. When one light goes out, the other lights stay on because the electric current has its own path in each branch.

Electrical Receptacles

Electrical sockets at home are also connected in parallel, thus that all electronic devices get the same voltage from the power source.

Batteries in Electronic Devices

The batteries in some devices are connected in parallel to maintain the same voltage but increase the current capacity, thus the device can last longer.

Electronic Circuits in Vehicles

Automobile electrical systems use parallel circuits to operate headlights, brake lights, and other electronic components. In a parallel circuit, damage to one component will not affect the others.

Parallel Circuit Formula

Certain electrical laws apply to calculate the total resistance, current, and voltage. Here is a detailed explanation of the formulas:

Source: www.quipper.com

Total Resistance (R?)

The total resistance in a parallel circuit is always less than the smallest resistance of the connected components. The formula is:

Total Current (I?)

the total current in a parallel circuit is the sum of the currents flowing through each branch. The formula is:

Voltage (V)

The voltage on each branch in a parallel circuit is the same and equivalent to the source voltage:

Ohm's Law in Parallel Circuits

Ohm's law still applies in every branch:

Formula for determining the voltage value:

The formula for determining the current value:

Formula for determining resistance value:

Parallel circuits are one of the important types of electrical circuits in various electrical applications because they offer the same voltage across each component, flexibility in adding or removing components, and are reliable and efficient. While it has advantages such as voltage stability and the ability to maintain the function of components even if one is damaged, it also has disadvantages, such as the need for more wires and a larger total current. After understanding of the characteristics, advantages, disadvantages, and calculations using Ohm's law, the parallel circuits are an ideal solution for home lighting systems, electronic devices, and for your vehicle's electrical system.