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

14733 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Write the equations of motion for constant acceleration and describe each term involved. Explain how to apply these equations of motion to calculate the horizontal and vertical components of a projectile moving under the force of gravity only.


Astronauts on the ISS orbit Earth 16 times a day at a height of 400km above the surface. Given that the radius of Earth is approximately 6400km, how fast are the astronauts travelling?


What is the current in a circuit?


Which of the following are magnetic materials? Copper, Cobalt, Carbon, Nickel


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