Series Circuit and Its Properties

In electrical and electronic circuits, a series circuit is a type of electric circuit in which circuit components are connected in a single path one after another. It provides only a single path for the flow of electric current. Hence, in a series circuit, all circuit elements form a single closed loop.

Read this chapter to learn about series circuit, its basic definition, working, and properties.

What is a Series Circuit?

An electric circuit which consists of components connected one after another in a single path is known as a series circuit. An electric circuit has only a single path and a single loop for the flow of electric current.

In a series circuit, if a single element gets down or an open occurs at any point of the path, the entire circuit current becomes zero and the circuit stops working.

Series Circuit Diagram

A simple series circuit is shown in the following figure −

It consists of a voltage source connected to a switch, and the switch is further connected to a resistor and the resistor is connected back to the voltage source. From this circuit, it is clear that the series circuit has only a single path and a single closed loop for the flow of electric current.

Working of Series Circuit

Let us understand how a series circuit works. For this, consider the series circuit shown above.

Step 1 − The voltage source provides the driving force/electrical energy required to run the circuit.

Step 2 − When the switch is closed, path completes, and the electric current say I starts flowing from positive terminal of the voltage source.

Step 3 − The same current I flows through every component of the circuit, because all elements are connected in series.

Step 4 − After travelling through the circuit, the electric current returns to the negative terminal of the source.

Properties of Series Circuit

The important properties/characteristics of series circuits are highlighted below −

• In series circuit, the same electric current flows through all circuit elements.
• Total supply voltage divides among circuit elements. Hence, each circuit element gets a portion of the total supply voltage depending on its resistance/impedance.
• Series circuit acts as a voltage divider.
• In series circuits, the total supply voltage equals to the sum of voltage drops across all elements.
• Total resistance of a series circuit is equal to the sum of individual resistances.
• If a single circuit element fails, the entire circuit will stop working.

Common Examples of Series Circuits

Some common examples of series circuit that we can see around us −

• Simple torch light/flashlight, which consists of a battery, bulb, and switch, all are connected in series.
• Electric fuse, which is always connected in series with the load.
• Ammeter, which is connected in series in the circuit for measuring current.

Conclusion

In conclusion, we can state that a series circuit is a basic type of electric circuits which is widely used in a variety of applications such as ammeter connection, torch light, voltage divider, etc.

A series circuit provides a single path for the flow of electric current, hence all circuit elements share the same electric current. In series circuits, the voltage is divisible, and resistances/impedances are additive. Let's proceed to the next chapter where we will cover another type of electric circuit called Parallel Circuit.