1.

**Definition:** A series circuit is an electrical circuit in which components (such as resistors,

inductors, capacitors, or other devices) are connected end-to-end in a single path, forming a loop
with only one continuous current path.

2. **Current Flow:** In a series circuit, the same current flows through each component because
there is only one path for the current to follow. This is known as series current or total current.

3. **Voltage Distribution:** The voltage across each component in a series circuit adds up to the
total voltage of the circuit. This is known as the voltage divider rule. The voltage drop across a
resistor, for example, is directly proportional to its resistance value compared to the total
resistance of the circuit.

4. **Resistance in Series:** The total resistance (RT) in a series circuit is the sum of the individual
resistances (R1, R2, R3, etc.) connected in series: RT = R1 + R2 + R3 + ...

5. **Current Divider Rule:** In a series circuit, the current through each component is inversely
proportional to its resistance. The higher the resistance, the less current flows through that
component. This is known as the current divider rule.

6. **Effects of Adding Components:** Adding more components (such as resistors) in series

increases the total resistance of the circuit, which reduces the total current flowing through the
circuit according to Ohm's Law (I = V/R).

7. **Voltage Drop:** Each component in a series circuit experiences a voltage drop due to the
resistance of that component. The voltage drop across a resistor is calculated using Ohm's Law (V
= I * R), where V is voltage, I is current, and R is resistance.

8. **Advantages of Series Circuits:** Series circuits are simple to understand and analyze
mathematically. They are often used in applications where components need to share the same
current, such as in Christmas lights or LED strings.

9. **Disadvantages of Series Circuits:** The failure of one component in a series circuit can disrupt
the entire circuit because the current path is interrupted. This can lead to a loss of function in all
components connected in series.
10. **Applications:** Series circuits are commonly used in electronics for voltage dividers, current-
limiting circuits, and sequential control circuits where components need to operate in a specific
order or sequence.