Physics A-Level
Series and parallel combinations
What Series and parallel combinations means in Physics A-Level, as defined for OCR.
Definition of Series and parallel combinations
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Series and parallel combinations in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: OCR
For a circuit with a series part and a parallel part, first simplify the parallel section to a single equivalent resistance, then add series resistances.
Topics that use Series and parallel combinations
- Series and parallel circuits (OCR A-Level)
Related terms
- Circuit analysis
- Conservation of charge
- Conservation of energy
- Conservation of energy in electrical circuits
- Kirchhoff's laws
- Ohm’s law
- Sign conventions in loop analysis
- Simultaneous equations in circuit analysis
Using Series and parallel combinations in the exam
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