Series and Parallel Circuit Series and parallel circuits are two fundamental configurations in electrical circuits, each with distinct characteristics that affect how electricity flows through them.

A parallel circuit is way of connecting components on separate branches, so the current can take different routes around the circuit. The current is different in different parts of a parallel circuit.

Last month's column covered the behavior of electrical components connected in series and demonstrated that when a voltage is applied across a series circuit, the current through each component is the ...