Circuit

Definition

A circuit is a closed path through which electric current flows, typically consisting of a power source, conductive path, and load. Circuits can be simple or complex, involving multiple components such as resistors, capacitors, and inductors.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ohm's Law ($V = IR$) describes the relationship between voltage (V), current (I), and resistance (R) in a circuit.
2. Kirchhoff's Current Law states that the total current entering a junction equals the total current leaving it.
3. Kirchhoff's Voltage Law states that the sum of all voltages around a closed loop equals zero.
4. Series circuits have components connected end-to-end, resulting in the same current flowing through each component but potentially different voltages across them.
5. Parallel circuits have components connected across common points, resulting in the same voltage across each component but potentially different currents through them.

Review Questions

• What law describes the relationship between voltage, current, and resistance in a circuit?
• How does Kirchhoff's Current Law apply to junctions in a circuit?
• What is the difference between series and parallel circuits?

Related terms

Resistance:

The opposition to the flow of electric current, measured in ohms ($\Omega$).

Voltage:

The electric potential difference between two points, measured in volts (V).

Current:

The flow of electric charge through a conductor, measured in amperes (A).