electrical circuit

An assemblage of electrical conductors (usually wires) and components through which current from a power source, such as a battery or generator flows. Components may be connected one after another (see series circuit) or side by side (see parallel circuit). If current is able to flow between two points their connection is a closed circuit; if not, an open circuit; and if resistance between them is virtually zero, a short circuit: a switch when off is a closed circuit, when on is a short circuit. Short circuits between the terminals of a power source are dangerous (see circuit breaker; fuse). See also Kirchhoff's laws.

Related category

• ELECTRICITY AND MAGNETISM

Also on this site:

Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living
Encyclopedia of History

BACK TO TOP