Connecting cells

We can connect cells together to produce either a higher
e.m.f. or a higher current. Depending on the desired effect
we can connect them in series or in parallel.
Connecting cells in series increases the available e.m.f.,
but also increases the internal resistance. This limits the
current that the combination can produce ( Figure 4).
The same two cells connected in parallel produce the
same e.m.f. as one cell, but have a much smaller internal
resistance, so provide a greater current.
1 Two Identical 1.5 V cell!.. each ,.,1th a11 ,ntr .,1
resistance of 0.75 0, are connected 1n serie~
Calculate the terminal p.d when
a the cells supply a current or O 80 A to a11
external circuit;
b the cells arc connected to a resistor of 10 0
2 Repeat the above calcula11ons for the cells
connected in parallel.

'- - - -- - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - -.

E = 1.5 V 0.5 Cl f = 1.5 V 0.5 Cl

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,_ - - - - - - - . - - - - - -- - - -- - ..
E = 3.0 V E = 1.5 V
r= 1.00 r= 0 25 rl
.A. Agure 4 The same rwa 1.5 V cells produce very differenr ourcomes when connected in senes and when
connected in poro/fel