1. Circuit Notes

2. Electric Circuit
A _________ is a complete, closed path through which electric charges flow (circle). Parts of a circuit – ________ – device that uses electrical energy __________– battery or outlet ________ - connector

3. Opening and closing a circuit
________ – when ________, the electricity flows - when ______, the electricity in that circuit stops because it isn’t complete

4. Load wire
Energy source 4. switch
5. Circuit
A device that uses electricity
A device that can open and close to allow electrical current to flow or stop
A conductive piece that connects a circuit
A complete closed path that allows electricity to flow
A device that provides electricity

5. Load wire
Energy source 4. switch
5. Circuit A B C F E D

6. Types of Circuits
Series - a circuit in which all parts are connected in a single loop or branch

7. Characteristics of a Series Circuit
All loads must be working for the circuit to work.
Every load reduces the amount of current going to all the loads (add a bulb, they all get dimmer).
All loads share the same current so they all have the same brightness.
Easy to wire.

8. Examples of Series Circuits
1. The automatic doors at the grocery store. 2. Very old Christmas lights where one bulb goes out and they all do. 3. Bank and home alarms 4. Computer circuits.

9. Parallel Circuit
Is a circuit in which different loads are located on separate branches.

10. Characteristics of Parallel Circuits
More difficult to wire.
2. Each branch functions by itself so if one load fails, the loads on other branches still work.
3. Each branch has a full amount of current so the loads on that branch receive the full amount. (Each light bulb is as bright as the others).

11. Examples of Parallel Circuits
Your house
Current Christmas Lights
Car lights and radio

12. (1) Series or (2) Parallel
Loads are wired on multiple branches
Loads are wired on a single branch or loop
If one load goes out all the loads go out
Light in your house
If one load goes out all the others still work
Home alarms
Computer circuits
All loads are just as bright as the others
One load brighter than the others

13. (1) Series or (2) ParallelB