components in parallel
1. What does “components in parallel” mean?
Electrical components are said to be connected in parallel when:
They are connected across the same two points (nodes) in a circuit.
Each component has its own separate path for current.
The voltage across each component is the same.
In simple words:👉 Current gets multiple paths to flow, instead of just one.
2. Parallel circuit diagram (explained)
A typical parallel circuit looks like this (conceptually):
┌───[R1]───┐
│ │
---┤ ├---
│ │
└───[R2]───┘
R1 and R2 are resistors in parallel
Both are connected between the same two junctions
The battery supplies voltage to both at the same time
🔑 Key idea:Each branch works independently.
3. Voltage in a parallel circuit
📌 Very important rule:
The voltage across each component in parallel is the same as the supply voltage.
If:
Battery voltage = 12 V
Then:
Voltage across R1 = 12 V
Voltage across R2 = 12 V
Voltage across R3 = 12 V (if added)
✔ No matter how many components you add in parallel, voltage stays the same for all.
4. Current in a parallel circuit (VERY IMPORTANT)
This is where parallel circuits are different from series circuits.
Main rule:
Total current = sum of currents in each branch
Mathematically:
Itotal=I1+I2+I3+…
What happens if one component fails?
✅ Big advantage of parallel circuits:
If one component breaks or is removed:
Other components continue to work
This is why homes use parallel wiring
Example:
If one bulb in your house fuses
Other bulbs stay ON 🔆
Real-life examples
Household electrical wiring
Street lights
Power sockets
Electronic circuit boards