Learn About Parallel and Series Circuits

When making electrical circuits, there are two different ways they can be made - in a series or a parallel circuit.

In a series circuit, everything is connected in a single loop.  Imagine a string of lights and you decorate your room with them all connected in a single line. When one light breaks and goes out, it breaks the circuit and all the lights go out.

In a parallel circuit, the lights are connected in separate branches, like branches on a tree.  If one light goes out, the others stay lit because each has its own separate path for electricity to flow.

In a series circuit, one problem can affect everything, but in a parallel circuit, each component works independently.

That is why parallel circuits are often used in homes and other buildings, where it is important for things to keep working even if one part stops.

Let's think about these different types of circuits some more in the following questions.