Resistors in Parallel: Current

Current in Parallel Circuit

• When resistors are connected in parallel, the supply current is equal to the sum of the currents through each resistor.
• In a parallel circuit, the currents in the branches add up to the supply current.

Formula for Total Current (I_total) in Parallel

• To calculate the total current in a parallel circuit, add the currents of all the branches.
• I_total = I₁ + I₂ + I₃ + ...

Conservation of Charge

• This principle aligns with the law of conservation of charge.
• In a parallel circuit, all electrons that leave the supply must return to the supply.
• Each electron can only pass through one parallel branch, ensuring charge conservation.

Ohm's Law for Current in Parallel

• Ohm's Law (V = I * R) can be applied to understand current in parallel circuits:
  • V represents potential difference (in volts, V).
  • I is the current (in amperes, A) in the circuit.
  • R₁, R₂, R₃, ... are the resistances of the branches.

Calculating Total Current

• In a parallel circuit, where the potential difference is the same across all branches:
• I_total = V / R_total
  • I_total is the total current.
  • V is the potential difference supplied.
  • R_total is the total resistance of all the branches.

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Resistors in Parallel: Current

In Summary

• In a parallel circuit, the supply current is the sum of currents through individual resistors.
• This principle aligns with the law of conservation of charge.
• Each electron can only pass through one parallel branch.
• Total current can be calculated by adding currents from all branches.
• Ohm's Law $(V = I \times R)$ helps relate potential difference, current, and resistance in parallel circuits.