Electric Circuits – Summary
An electric circuit is a closed path through which electric current flows. It typically consists of a power source, conductive path, and load (device that consumes electricity).
1. Basic Components
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Voltage Source (V): Provides electrical energy (e.g., battery, power supply).
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Conductors: Wires that allow current to flow.
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Resistors (R): Limit current and drop voltage.
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Switches: Open or close the circuit.
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Load: Converts electrical energy into another form (e.g., light, heat).
2. Types of Circuits
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Series Circuit:
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One path for current.
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Total resistance:
Rtotal=R1+R2+…
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Current is the same through all components.
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Voltage divides across components.
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Parallel Circuit:
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Multiple paths for current.
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Total resistance:
Rtotal1=R11+R21+…
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Voltage is the same across branches.
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Current divides among paths.
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Series-Parallel Circuit: Combination of both.
3. Key Electrical Quantities
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Voltage (V): Potential difference, measured in volts (V).
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Current (I): Flow of charge, measured in amperes (A).
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Resistance (R): Opposition to current, measured in ohms (Ω).
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Power (P): Rate of energy use,
P=VI, measured in watts (W).
4. Ohm’s Law
V=IR
Relates voltage, current, and resistance.
5. Kirchhoff’s Laws
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Kirchhoff’s Current Law (KCL): The total current entering a junction equals the total current leaving.
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Kirchhoff’s Voltage Law (KVL): The sum of voltages around any closed loop is zero.
6. Applications
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Lighting systems, electronic devices, communication systems, power distribution, etc.
Let me know if you want diagrams, formulas, or real-world examples included.