Physics
Difference between Series and Parallel Combination
Difference between series combination and parallel combination
series combination |
parallel combination |
Definition |
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In series, combination are joined end to end. | In parallel combination, one end of each resistor is connected to one terminal of the battery while the other end of each resistor is connected to the second terminal of the battery. |
Path |
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There is only a single path for the passage of current. | There are multiple paths for the passage of current. |
Amount of current |
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The same amount of current passage through each of these resistors.
Formula |
Different amounts of current pass through each resistor. The Sum of all current is equal to the total current supplied by the battery.
Formula |
Potential difference |
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The sum of potential differences across individual resistors is equal to the total voltage of the battery.
Formula |
The potential difference across each resistor is the same and is always equal to the voltage of the battery.
Formula |
Net resistance |
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Net resistance of all the resistors is equal to the sum of individual resistance.
Formula |
Net resistance of all the resistors is equal to the sum of reciprocal of individual resistors.
Formula |