What are the main types of electrical circuits?

The main types of electrical circuits are indeed series and parallel circuits.

In a series circuit, components are connected end-to-end, which means the current flows through one component after another. If any part of the circuit fails, the entire circuit is interrupted, leading to a stop in current flow. This configuration is commonly utilized in string lights and batteries connected in series to increase voltage.

Conversely, in a parallel circuit, components are connected across common points or junctions. This allows for multiple pathways for the current to flow. If one component fails, the current can still flow through the other pathways, thus the rest of the circuit continues to function. Parallel circuits are prevalent in household wiring, where appliances can operate independently of each other.

Understanding these two fundamental types—series and parallel—is essential in analyzing and designing circuits, as each configuration has distinct properties and behaviors that affect how electrical devices operate within a system.