How do current and voltage vary in series and parallel circuits, respectively?

In a series circuit, the current is the same throughout; the voltage is split among the components (such as LEDs or resistors) in proportion to the resistance of the components (higher resistance means more voltage across that component). In a parallel circuit, the voltage is the same across each branch of the circuit. The current is split between each path and is inversely proportional to the resistance of the components on each path (higher resistance means a lower current in that path)

PM
Answered by Paul M. Physics tutor

13722 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Photons with 605 THz frequency strike metal of 1.2eV work function. Calculate the maximum energy of photoelectrons and their velocity. What amount of energy is necessary to stop all photoelectrons? (Planck's constant. electron mass and charge are given)


How to calculate temperature of expanded ideal gas.


A baseball player strikes a ball with an initial velocity of 43ms^-1 at an angle of 32° to the horizontal. How far does the ball travel horizontally in 4 seconds?


Explain why a simple electric motor continues to turn in the same direction when there is a current in the coil (6 marks)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning