TYPES OF CIRCUITS

1 A series circuit is one in which all components are connected in tandem as in Figs. 3.1 and 3.2. The current at every point of a series circuit is the same. Series circuits find their most important commercial application in series street lighting. They are seldom if ever used in the United States for the transmission of power. current supplying the energy for lighting. In the system of Fig. 3.11 the energy is generated, transmitted, and distributed as alternating current throughout. This system is more common.

FIGURE 3.1: Series electric-bell circuit.

FIGURE 3.2: Series street-lighting circuit.

FIGURE 3.11: Simple complete electric system, generating, transmitting, and distributing alternating current.

FIGURE 3.3: Electric bells in parallel.

2 Multiple, parallel, or shunt circuits are those in which the components are so arranged that the current divides between them (Figs. 3.3 and 3.4). Commercially, the distinction between multiple and series circuits is that in series lighting circuits the current is maintained constant and the generated emf varies with the load whereas in multiple circuits the current through the generator varies with the load and the generator emf is maintained practically constant. current supplying the energy for lighting. In the system of Fig. 3.11 the energy is generated, transmitted, and distributed as alternating current throughout. This system is more common.

FIGURE 3.4: A multiple circuit for light and power.

3 Adding receivers in parallel on multiple circuits is really...