Get to Know Electrical Series Circuits and Examples 

In the world of electricity, series circuits are one of the basic concepts that are important to understand. This concept has wide applications in various fields from electronics to modern technology. For those of you who would like to know more please check out complete explanation of series circuits below.

Definition of Series

A series circuit is an arrangement of electrical components connected in sequence thus that the current flowing through each component has the same value. Mean the electric current has only one path to flow from the power source to the load and back again to the source.

The components are connected in sequence so that electric current flows through each component successively. Meanwhile, the components of parallel circuit are connected parallel to each other that allowing electric current to pass through different paths.

Series Characteristics

A series circuit is a simple configuration in the world of electricity because it has only one path for current flow. All components such as resistors, lights, or other devices, are arranged in a row or series so that the electric current does not branch out. The current flowing in each component has the same value and the voltage appearing in each component depends on the value of the resistor.

As a result, the total resistance of the series circuit becomes greater than the value of the largest resistor contained in the circuit. However, the main disadvantage of a series circuit is that if one of the electrical loads is disconnected then the electricity flow in the entire circuit will stop.

In addition, the rise and fall of current in a series circuit is strongly influenced by the connected electrical load and the light tends to be dimmer due to the presence of considerable resistance. However, the advantage of a series circuit is that it does not require a lot of electrical conductors or cables. There is only need one switch to control the entire circuit.

Advantages of Series Circuits

Despite some limitations, series circuits have certain advantages, including:

1. Simple

Series circuits are relatively simple in design which is making them suitable for applications that require a simple design.

2. Stable

The constant current in each component makes the series circuit more stable in use.

3. Easy to understand

The basic concept of a series circuit is easily understood by electrical novices.

4. Cost efficiency

The series circuit requires a smaller number of wires thus, the manufacture of this circuit becomes cheaper due to the use of fewer materials.

5. Easy repair

In the event of a malfunction a series circuit is easier to repair because it involves only a few components connected in sequence.

6. Easy to check

Checking for faults in series circuits is easier because there are not as many components to check therefore making the repair process faster and more efficient.

Drawbacks of Series Circuits

While series circuits have a number of advantages, there are some disadvantages that make them less efficient under certain conditions. Here are the disadvantages of series circuits:

1. Electric Current is Interrupted if There is a Disturbance

If one of the electrical components in a series circuit is removed or damaged, the entire flow of electric current will stop. This can interfere with the performance of other devices connected in the circuit.

2. Greater Power Consumption

Series circuits tend to require more electrical power, making them inefficient in energy use. As a result, the battery in this circuit will run out faster than other types of circuits.

3. Dimmer Light

When used for lights, series circuits produce dimmer light. The more lights installed in the circuit, the less the light intensity will be, making it unsuitable for bright lighting needs.

4. Uneven Electric Current

In a series circuit, the flow of electric current is not spread evenly to all parts of the circuit. This can cause the performance of certain components to be less than optimal.

Example of Application of Series Circuits

Series circuits have various applications in daily life and industry, namely:

1. Christmas tree lights

In Christmas tree lights that use a series circuit. The lights are connected sequentially thus that if one light goes out then all the lights in the series will go out. This creates an interesting visual effect on the Christmas tree where the lights will flicker or go out simultaneously.

2. Lights in the refrigerator

A series circuit in a refrigerator is used in the lighting inside. The lights in the refrigerator are connected sequentially forming a series circuit. When the refrigerator door is opened this the circuit is reconnected and the lights is on

Once the refrigerator door is closed circuit is disconnected therefore the lights turn off to save energy. This is an example of the practical application of a series circuit that provides effective and energy-saving functions in a refrigerator.

3. Flashlight

The series circuit on the flashlight is used to regulate the flow of electricity from the battery to the lamp. When the flashlight is turned on the electric current flows from the battery to the lamp sequentially through the connected wires.

This ensures that the same current flows through each lamp thus each lamp will light up with the same brightness. If one of the lights in the flashlight is damaged or disconnected then the electricity will stop flowing and the other lights will also not light up.

4. Lighting circuit at home

Some home lighting installations use a series circuit for lights in one room.

Series Circuit Formula and Its Explanation

A series circuit is a type of electrical circuit in which all components are connected sequentially in one current path. Due to its simple nature, this circuit is often used in various basic applications. Here are the important formulas you need to know in series circuits:

Total Resistance (R)

The total resistance in a series circuit is the sum of all the resistors in the circuit. The formula is:

Rtotal = R¹ + R² + R³ + ... + Rn

This means that the more resistors that are added, the greater the total resistance of the circuit.

Electric Current (I)

In a series circuit, the electric current flowing through each component is the same. The formula is:

Itotal = I¹ = I² = I³ = ... = In

This property makes the current in a series circuit constant at every point.

Total Voltage (V)

The total voltage in a series circuit is the sum of the voltages on each component. The formula:

Vtotal = V¹ + V² + V³ + ... + Vn

This voltage will be divided between each component according to the amount of resistance.

Ohm's Law

Series circuits also follow Ohm's law which states the relationship between voltage (V), current (I), and resistance (R):

V = I x R

Using this formula, you can calculate one of the variables if the other two are known.

Example of Application of Series Formula

For example, there are three resistors with values of 5Ω, 10Ω, and 15Ω connected in series, and the total voltage is 60V. Using the formula:

• Total resistance: Rtotal = 5 + 10 + 15 = 30Ω
• Electric current: Itotal = V/R = 60/30 = 2A
• Voltage of each resistor: V¹ = I x R¹ = 2 x 5 = 10V, V² = 2 x 10 = 20V, V³ = 2 x 15 = 30V

By understanding these formulas, you can easily analyze and solve various problems related to series circuits. This circuit is suitable for simple applications, but if you need more complex voltage or current distribution, consider using a parallel circuit.

Therefore, a series circuit is a basic concept in the world of electricity that has many applications in everyday life. By understanding some of the explanations above we can better apply this concept in various fields. Despite its simplicity, series circuits play an important role in ensuring the smooth flow of electricity and the functionality of electronic devices.