Written by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โข Last updated September 2025
Definition
A parallel connection refers to a circuit configuration where multiple components are connected side by side, allowing the current to split and flow through each component independently.
Related terms
Series Connection: A series connection is when components are connected one after another, creating a single path for the current to flow through.
Current Divider Rule: The current divider rule is used to calculate the amount of current that flows through each branch in a parallel circuit.
Equivalent Resistance: The equivalent resistance is the total resistance seen by the power source in a parallel circuit, calculated using Ohm's Law or by adding reciprocals of individual resistances.