Question
4 Describe the pattern in potential difference when changing the number of bulbs in the circuit. __
Answer
4.2
(272 Votes)
Ernest
Elite · Tutor for 8 years
Answer
The pattern in potential difference when changing the number of bulbs in the circuit depends on whether the circuit is series or parallel. In a series circuit, the potential difference across each bulb decreases as more bulbs are added. In a parallel circuit, the potential difference across each bulb remains the same, regardless of the number of bulbs.
Explanation
## Step1:The potential difference, also known as voltage, in a circuit is determined by the power source, such as a battery. The voltage provided by the power source is constant, regardless of the number of bulbs in the circuit.## Step2:When adding more bulbs to a series circuit, the potential difference or voltage across each bulb decreases. This is because the total voltage provided by the power source is divided equally among all the bulbs in the circuit. ### The formula for voltage in a series circuit is: ###
Where
is the total voltage provided by the power source, and
are the voltages across each bulb.## Step3:In contrast, when adding more bulbs to a parallel circuit, the potential difference or voltage across each bulb remains the same. This is because each bulb in a parallel circuit receives the full voltage from the power source.### The formula for voltage in a parallel circuit is: ###
Where
is the total voltage provided by the power source, and
are the voltages across each bulb.