Electric Circuits
Series and parallel circuits, conductors and insulators
What is an Electric Circuit?
An electric circuit is a closed path through which electric current flows. A basic circuit needs: a source of energy (battery/cell), a conductor (wire), a switch and a component (like a bulb). If the circuit is broken (open), current cannot flow.
Series and Parallel Circuits
In a series circuit, components are connected one after another in a single loop. If one bulb breaks, all go off.
In a parallel circuit, components are on separate branches. If one bulb breaks, the others stay on. Houses in South Africa use parallel circuits — so one light can be off while others are on.
Example
Circuit Diagrams
We use symbols to draw circuits:
• Battery: two lines (long = +, short = −)
• Bulb: circle with an X
• Switch: gap in the line
• Resistor: zigzag line
• Ammeter: circle with 'A'
Always draw neat, straight lines and use a ruler.
Note
Conductors and Insulators
Conductors allow electricity to flow (metals like copper, aluminium). Insulators block the flow (rubber, plastic, glass). This is why electrical wires have a copper core wrapped in plastic — the copper carries the current and the plastic keeps us safe.
Key Vocabulary
CircuitA closed path through which electricity flows
CurrentThe flow of electrical charge through a conductor
Series circuitA circuit with components connected in one single loop
Parallel circuitA circuit with components on separate branches
ConductorA material that allows electricity to flow through it
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