Cells Combination in Series

and Parallel
This document provides a comprehensive overview of series and parallel connections in electrical
circuits, focusing on how they impact the behavior of individual cells and their overall performance.
We will delve into the intricacies of series connections, their advantages and disadvantages, and
then explore parallel connections, highlighting their distinct characteristics.

Additionally, we will examine the benefits and drawbacks of each configuration. The document will
culminate in a discussion of combining series and parallel connections, a practice commonly
employed in various applications to achieve specific electrical requirements. Finally, we will explore
real-world scenarios where these connection types are utilized.

An electric circuit is an uninterrupted, conductive, complete, and closed path through which
electrons flow from a source of electric power or source of energy through a device and returns to
its source to complete the flow.

On connecting the electric circuit to a battery, electrons flow from the battery’s negative terminal
through one or more electrical devices like a bulb, for example, and then flow back to the positive
terminal of the source of the power that is the battery in this case. Classification of these happens
on the basis of the different ways in which circuits can be wired.
Introduction to Series and Parallel
Connections
In the realm of electrical circuits, understanding the concept of series and parallel connections is
crucial. These connection types form the foundation for designing and analyzing various electrical
systems.
Series connections refer to a configuration where components are linked end-to-end, forming a
single path for the electrical current to flow. In contrast, parallel connections feature components
that are connected side by side, creating multiple paths for current to flow. Both series and parallel
connections have unique characteristics that influence the voltage, current, and resistance of the
circuit. This document will explore each type of connection, delving into their advantages,
disadvantages, and practical applications.

EMF:
The work done in moving a unit positive charge completely round the closed circuit including
the battery is called emf. Emf is not a force. It is a scalar quantity.

Potential Difference:
The work done in moving a unit positive charge between any two points in a circuit is called
potential difference b) Potential difference is a scalar quantity. It is the energy (or) work

Internal Resistance:
The resistance offered by electrolyte and the electrodes of the cell to the flow of ions is called
internal resistance of the cell (r). The unit of internal resistance is ohm. The internal
resistance depends on the
1. Surface area of the electrodes.
2. The separation between the electrodes.
3. Nature and concentration of the electrolyte
4. Temperature of the electrolyte
5. The internal resistance of an ideal cell is zero

Terminal Voltage:
V=E-Ir Where V is called the terminal voltage (or) terminal potential difference and Vir is

called loss volts (or) internal voltage of the cell. When the cell is in the charging condition,
emf is less than the terminal voltage V = E+Ir. When the cell is in the discharging condition
emf is more than potential difference V=E-Ir
Understanding
Series Connections
In a series connection, electrical components are
connected in a single, continuous path. The current
flowing through each component in the series is the
same.

However, the voltage across each component is divided,

and the sum of individual voltage drops equals the total
voltage applied to the circuit.

The total resistance in a series circuit is the sum of

individual resistances.
Therefore, if any component in a series circuit fails,
the circuit becomes open, and no current flows.
Series Connections:
VAB = V(A) – V(B) = E1 – Ir1

VBC = V(B) – V(C) = E2 – Ir2

Thus, the potential difference between the points A and C will be given by,

V(A) – V(C) = [V(A) – V(B)] – [V(C) – V(B)]

⇒ V(A) – V(C) = E1 + E2 – (Ir1 + Ir2)

⇒ V(A) – V(C) = E1 + E2 – (Ir1 + Ir2)

To replace this combination of cells with a single equivalent cell of emf value Eeq and req. Then,

⇒ Eeq – I(req) = E1 + E2 – (Ir1 + Ir2)

This can be extended to any number of cells, Eeq = E1 + E2 + … and req = r1 + r2 + …

In this case, connected the negative electrode of the battery are connected to the positive
electrode of another battery. In case we connect their similar electrodes together, the two emf’s will
now point in opposite directions. In that case, the equivalent values will be,

Advantages and Disadvantages of

Series Connections
Series connections offer several advantages, including:

Increased voltage: By connecting cells in series, the total voltage of the

circuit increases, which can be beneficial for applications requiring a higher
voltage. For instance, series connections are often used in flashlights to
boost the voltage and create a brighter light.

Simple design: Series circuits are relatively easy to design and implement.
Their straightforward structure makes them suitable for basic applications.

However, series connections also have some disadvantages:

Vulnerability to failures: If one component in a series circuit fails, the entire

circuit breaks, and no current flows. This can be problematic in applications
where uninterrupted operation is crucial. For example, if one bulb fails in a
series-connected string of Christmas lights, the entire string goes out.

Uneven voltage distribution: In a series circuit, the voltage is divided among the
components based on their individual resistances. This can lead to an uneven
voltage distribution if the resistances are not equal, potentially causing
premature failure of components with higher resistance.

Understanding
Parallel Connections
In a parallel connection, electrical components
are connected side by side, providing multiple
paths for the current to flow.

The voltage across each component in a

parallel circuit is the same, which is equal to
the total voltage applied to the circuit.

However, the current flowing through each

component is divided, and the sum of individual
currents equals the total current flowing
through the circuit.

The total resistance in a parallel circuit is

calculated using the formula represent the
resistances of each component.

= 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3..., where R1,

R2, R3...

Unlike series connections, if one

component in a parallel circuit fails, the
other components will continue to operate.

Parallel Connections:
Let V(B1) and V(B2) denote the
potential at B1 and B2. Consider both
the cells one by one,
V = V(B1) – V(B2) = E1 – I1R
V = V(B1) – V(B2) = E2 – I2R

I = I 1 + I2

Rearranging the
equation to take out the value
of V,

To replace this combination of cells with a

single equivalent cell of emf value Eeq and req.
Then,
Advantages and Disadvantages of
Parallel Connections
Parallel connections offer several advantages, including:

Improved reliability: If one component in a parallel circuit fails, the other

components will continue to operate. This is a significant advantage in
applications where uninterrupted operation is critical. For example, in a
household wiring system, if one light bulb burns out, the other lights remain
on.
Consistent voltage distribution: The voltage across each component in a
parallel circuit is the same, ensuring a consistent voltage supply to all
components, regardless of their resistance values.
We can connect or disconnect a new electric appliance in the circuit
without affecting the other components in the circuit.

However, parallel connections also have some disadvantages:

Increased current: Parallel connections typically draw more current than series
connections. This can lead to higher power consumption and potentially
overload the circuit if the current exceeds the wire's capacity.
Higher cost: Parallel connections can be more expensive to implement than
series connections, especially if multiple components are involved. The
complexity of parallel connections also increases the risk of wiring errors.
In parallel circuits, we cannot increase the voltage since the resistance
decreases in the parallel circuit.
Even if there are advantages and disadvantages of series and parallel
connection of electric circuits, both the connections are equally important and
essential. The household appliances are generally connected in parallel across
the live wire and the neutral wire.
Combining Series and
Parallel Connections
Combining series and parallel connections is a common practice in electronics and
electrical engineering to achieve specific electrical requirements. This involves
connecting groups of components in series and then connecting these series
groups in parallel, or vice versa.

This combination allows for creating circuits with desired voltage and current
characteristics, as well as enhancing reliability and efficiency.
By strategically combining series and parallel connections, engineers can
optimize circuit performance to meet specific application needs.
Calculating Total Voltage and
Current in Combinations
Calculating total voltage and current in combined series and parallel connections
requires a systematic approach. For series connections, the total voltage is the
sum of the individual voltage drops across each component. The total current is
the same in all components. For parallel connections, the total voltage is the
same across each component and equals the applied voltage. The total current is
the sum of the currents flowing through each component. To calculate total
voltage and current in combined series and parallel circuits, it's crucial to break
down the circuit into simpler series and parallel sections and apply the relevant
formulas for each section.

Type of Connection Voltage Current Resistance

Series Vtotal = V1 + V2 +V3...Vn Itotal = I1 = I2 = I3...In Rtotal = R1 + R2 + R3...Rn

Parallel Vtotal = V1 = V2 = V3...Vn Itotal = I1 + I2 + I3...In 1/Rtotal = 1/R1 + 1/R2

+ 1/R3...
Simplifying Combination Series and
Parallel Circuits
Understanding and analysing combination series-parallel circuits typically involves
breaking them into simpler series or parallel parts to calculate total resistance, voltage
drops, and current distribution as solving combination circuits is generally easier if the
circuit is reduced to simpler circuits.

A series–parallel circuit is one which is made up of both series and parallel circuits in
combination. The possible number of combinations is endless and as such no two circuits will be
the same so therefore, they must be treated and solved individually.

Any combination of series and parallel circuits can be solved by simplification. By repeatedly
replacing any series and parallel combinations of circuit elements by their equivalent. For
example, a number of resistors, which are in series or in parallel, can be replaced by one single
resistor which will have the same effect on the circuit.

Determining the equivalent resistance of a series-parallel circuit requires a logical step-

by-step approach allowing us to find the voltage drops across, and the current through,
each component.

The first step is to identify the purely series and parallel sections and then breaking the
circuit down into simpler parts by reducing either the series or parallel combinations one
at a time.

Continue reducing the circuit by simplifying series and parallel combinations until there is
a single equivalent resistance, REQ for the entire circuit. Once you find the total current IT,
work backwards to calculate the voltage drops, currents and power dissipation for the
individual components.
Practical Applications of Series and
Parallel Connections
Series and parallel connections are widely utilized in various electrical and
electronic applications, each offering distinct advantages. Series connections are
commonly found in applications where a higher voltage is required, such as in
flashlights, strings of Christmas lights, and voltage dividers.

Parallel connections are often used in applications where constant voltage is

required, such as in household wiring systems, automotive electrical systems,
and battery banks. Combining series and parallel connections enables engineers
to design circuits that meet specific voltage, current, and reliability requirements,
making these connections fundamental to various electrical and electronic
systems.

Examples
Flashlights: The cells in a
flashlight are connected in
series to increase the total
voltage, producing a brighter
light.
Car battery: The cells in a car
battery are connected in series
to provide a higher voltage
output.
House wiring: Outlets and light fixtures in
a house are wired in parallel to ensure
a consistent voltage supply to each
device, even if other devices are
turned on or off.
Computer power supply: A computer power supply often uses a
combination of series and parallel connections to deliver various
voltages to different components within the computer.
BIBLIOGRAPHY

I. Links
1. www.wikipedia.com
2. www.byjus.com
3. www.vedantu.com
4. www.phy12.com
5. www.sciencehub.com

II. Books
1. Class XII Physics NCERT Book Part-1
2. Class XII Physics Lab Manual
3. Concepts Of Physics – H C Verma