Comparing Brightness in Series and Parallel Lightbulb Circuits

In summary, when lightbulbs are arranged in a series, they do not receive as much current as those in a parallel arrangement. This means that the brightness of the bulbs will depend on which one receives the current. In addition, in a parallel circuit, the total current is the sum of all the currents flowing through each branch.
  • #1
IvaNMK
13
0

Homework Statement


How do the bulb's brightness compare?

Which ones will be brighter or dimmer?

What will happen if a resistor is placed before Bulb 2?
and
What will happen if a resistor is placed between Bulb 2 and 3?

Does it matter if i place the resistor before or after the ammeter? Will it read the same?

Homework Equations



P = IV

R = V/I

The Attempt at a Solution



I think all 3 bulbs will be at the same brightness because current and voltage are the same for both branches.

Thanks for help me out!
Circuit.jpg
 
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  • #2
Are these identical bulbs? Are they standard incandescent bulbs?
 
  • #3
TVP45 said:
Are these identical bulbs? Are they standard incandescent bulbs?

YES, they are.
 
  • #4
When lightbulbs are in a series, they do not receive as much current as the lightbulb in the parallel series. In other words, the brightnest depends on which lightbulb will receive the current.
 
  • #5
Kandycat said:
When lightbulbs are in a series, they do not receive as much current as the lightbulb in the parallel series. In other words, the brightnest depends on which lightbulb will receive the current.


you mean that lightbulbs in series receive less current than those in parallel?

Isnt that Current is the same throughout the whole series?

and Total current in parallel circuit is the sum of all currents flowing thru all branches?
 

FAQ: Comparing Brightness in Series and Parallel Lightbulb Circuits

What is the purpose of resistors in a circuit?

Resistors are electronic components that are used to limit the flow of electric current in a circuit. They are commonly used to control the amount of current that flows through a specific part of the circuit, which can affect the overall brightness of a light or LED.

How do resistors affect the brightness of a light or LED?

By limiting the flow of current, resistors can decrease the amount of electrical energy that reaches a light or LED, thus reducing its brightness. The amount of resistance in a circuit can be adjusted to achieve the desired level of brightness.

What is the relationship between resistance and brightness?

The greater the resistance in a circuit, the lower the brightness of a light or LED will be. This is because the higher resistance limits the flow of current, reducing the amount of energy that reaches the light source.

Can resistors increase the brightness of a light or LED?

No, resistors are used to decrease the brightness of a light or LED. They cannot increase brightness on their own, but they can be used in combination with other components, such as transistors, to achieve an increase in brightness.

How do you choose the right resistor for a circuit to achieve a desired brightness?

The amount of resistance needed in a circuit to achieve a desired brightness depends on factors such as the voltage of the power source, the type of light or LED being used, and the desired level of brightness. It is important to calculate the appropriate resistance using Ohm's law and to choose a resistor with a wattage rating that can handle the expected amount of power. Alternatively, a variable resistor can be used to adjust the brightness until the desired level is achieved.

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