Circuits and Schematic Diagrams Chapter 35
Circuits ~a set of components that give current a path to follow You need: Voltage source resistor wire Symbols Switch open closed not necessary for a circuit to have
A complete circuit ~gives current a complete path (from + to - through a resistor). also called closed Resistor receives power
Complete Circuits
An incomplete circuit ~does not give current a complete path (from + to - through a resistor). also called open either a wiring mistake or a switch is open to turn it off. Resistor does not receive power
Incomplete Circuits
A short circuit ~gives current a complete path (from + to – but not through a resistor). electricity will always take the path of least resistance. (avoid the resistor if it can) Resistor does not receive power
Short Circuits
Shorts are dangerous with no resistor, there is nothing to slow the current down. The only resistance is from the wire, which is low. This pulls a lot of amperage across and causes it to heat up. This causes sparks and fires.
homework Pg 714 1-15