Parallel circuit
Definition
A parallel circuit is a circuit where the components are connected side by side, providing separate paths for current flow.
Analogy
Think of parallel parking on a street. Each car has its own parking space and can come and go independently without affecting other cars.
Related terms
Kirchhoff's Current Law (KCL): KCL states that at any junction point in an electrical circuit, the sum of currents entering that point must be equal to the sum of currents leaving that point.
Equivalent Resistance: In a parallel circuit, equivalent resistance is calculated differently than in series circuits because there are multiple paths for current flow.
Power Dissipation: Power dissipation refers to how much power is lost or converted into heat as electric energy passes through resistive elements in a parallel circuit.
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