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Series connections

Components that are connected one after another on the same loop of the circuit are connected in series.

Two lamps connected in series

The circuit diagram shows a circuit with two lamps connected in series.

If one lamp breaks, the other lamp will not light.

Series circuits are useful if you want a warning that one of the components in the circuit has failed.

For example, a circuit breaker or fuse must be connected in series in order for it to work.

If Christmas tree lights are connected in series they all go out when one bulb breaks.

Parallel connections

Components that are connected on separate loops are connected in parallel.

The current is shared between each of the circuit loops.

The total amount of current flowing into the junction, or split, is equal to the total current flowing out.

The current is described as being conserved.

Two lamps connected in parallel

The circuit diagram shows a circuit with two lamps connected in parallel.

If one lamp breaks, the other lamp will still light.

The lights in most houses are connected in parallel.

This means that if one bulb breaks the others remain on.

For a parallel circuit, the sum of all the current in every branch is equal to the current from the electrical supply.