| English | Series circuit |
|---|---|
| Bahasa Melayu | Litar bersiri |
| 中文 | 串联电路 |
Definition
A circuit in which components are connected end to end in a single path, so the same current flows through each.
In exam terms
A series circuit connects components end to end in a single loop, so there is only one path for the current. This gives three key features: the same current flows through every component; the total potential difference is shared among the components (V = V₁ + V₂ + …); and the effective resistance is the sum of the individual resistances, R = R₁ + R₂ + …, in ohms (Ω).
Example of correct use: two resistors of 3 Ω and 5 Ω in series give an effective resistance of R = 3 Ω + 5 Ω = 8 Ω.
Do not confuse it with…
Do not confuse a series circuit with a parallel circuit. In series the current is the same everywhere while the potential difference is shared; in parallel the potential difference is the same across each branch while the current is shared.
Adding a resistor in series increases total resistance, whereas adding one in parallel decreases it.
In Paper 2 you may be asked to state a characteristic of a series circuit, or to calculate effective resistance; always show that current is common before summing the resistances.
Source: DSKP KSSM Physics Form 4 and 5 (Versi English) (Bahagian Pembangunan Kurikulum (BPK), KPM)