ABSTRACT
This chapter explains series, parallel and series–parallel networks. It aims to calculate unknown voltages, current and resistances in a series circuit, parallel network, and series–parallel networks. The chapter explains voltage division in a series circuit. It discusses current division in a two-branch parallel network. The chapter explores the loading effect of a voltmeter. It presents the difference between potentiometers and rheostats. The chapter highlights calculations to determine load currents and voltages in potentiometers and rheostats. It describes the advantages and disadvantages of series and parallel connection of lamps. There are two ways in which components may be connected together in an electric circuit. One way is 'in series' where components are connected 'end-to-end'; another way is 'in parallel' where components are connected 'across each other'. When a circuit is more complicated than two or three elements, it is very likely to be a network of individual series and parallel circuits.
