Cambridge IGCSE Physics

4.3.2Series and parallel circuits

Series and parallel circuits in Cambridge IGCSE Physics: what the syllabus expects you to know, the learning objectives and how to practise.

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Learning objectives

What the syllabus expects you to be able to do.

4.3.2.1Know that the current is the same everywhere in a series circuit.
4.3.2.2Build and use series and parallel circuits.
4.3.2.3Calculate the combined e.m.f. of several sources in series.
4.3.2.4Calculate the combined resistance of resistors in series.
4.3.2.5State that in a parallel circuit the current from the source is larger than the current in any branch.
4.3.2.6State that two resistors in parallel have less resistance than either one alone.
4.3.2.7State the advantages of wiring lamps in parallel in a lighting circuit.
4.3.2.8Supplement: use in calculations that currents into a junction equal currents out, and that the p.d.s across series components add up to the total p.d.
4.3.2.9Supplement: explain that the current into a junction equals the current out because charge is conserved.
4.3.2.10Supplement: calculate the combined resistance of two resistors in parallel.

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