Section outline

  • Robots need electricity to power different parts like motors, sensors, and lights. But how we connect electrical components matters a lot. There are two main ways to connect components in a circuit:

    • Series Circuit

    • Parallel Circuit

    Let’s explore both with simple examples!

    • 🔗 What is a Series Circuit?

      • In a series circuit, all components are connected one after another in a single path.

      • The same current flows through each component.

      • If one component fails or is removed, the entire circuit stops working.

      Series Circuit

      🧪 Example:

      Imagine 3 light bulbs connected in a line. If one bulb breaks, the other two will go out too.

      💡 Real-life comparison: Old-style decorative lights — if one bulb goes out, the whole string does!

      🔍 How Voltage Works in Series:

      • The voltage is divided among the components.

      • More components = less brightness for each light.

    • 🔀 What is a Parallel Circuit?

      • In a parallel circuit, each component is connected separately to the power source.

      • Electricity can flow through multiple paths.

      • If one component fails, the others can still work.

      Parallel Circuit

      🧪 Example:

      Three bulbs connected in parallel will stay lit even if one burns out.

      🏠 Real-life comparison: The lights and fans in your home are wired in parallel — so you can turn one off without affecting the others!

      🔍 How Voltage Works in Parallel:

      • Each component gets the same voltage from the power source.

      • So all bulbs shine equally bright.

       

    • ⚖️ Quick Comparison Table

      Feature Series Circuit Parallel Circuit
      Connection Style One path Multiple paths
      Current Flow Same through all components Divided among branches
      Voltage Distribution Divided across components Same for all components
      If one part fails... Entire circuit stops Other parts still work
      Common Use Low-power LED chains Homes, robots, appliances

      🧪 Try This: Simple Paper Circuit Challenge

      Cut out a piece of cardboard and use copper tape, a battery, and LEDs to make:

      • One series circuit (LEDs in a row)

      • One parallel circuit (LEDs on branches)

      Notice:

      • Which one is brighter?

      • What happens if you remove one LED?

      ✂️ A fun, hands-on way to see the difference between circuit types!

      🤖 In Robotics

      • Use series circuits when you want a single path and simple control.

      • Use parallel circuits when different parts need to work independently, like motors and sensors running at the same time.