Question 1

Which of the following correctly describes the equivalent resistance $R_{eq}$ for three resistors $R_1$, $R_2$, and $R_3$ connected in series?

Accepted Answer

$R_{eq} = R_1 + R_2 + R_3$

Question 2

Two identical capacitors, each of capacitance $C$, are connected in parallel across a battery of voltage $V_B$. What is the equivalent capacitance of the combination?

Accepted Answer

$C_{eq} = 2C$

Question 3

Which of the following statements about capacitors in series is correct?

Accepted Answer

Each capacitor has the same charge.

Question 4

Given two capacitors, $C_1 = 1.0\ \mu F$ and $C_2 = 2.0\ \mu F$, connected in series across a battery of voltage $V_B$, what is the charge on $C_1$?

Accepted Answer

$Q_1 = \frac{C_1 C_2}{C_1 + C_2} V_B$

Question 5

A voltmeter is used to measure the voltage across a resistor in a circuit. Where should the voltmeter be connected?

Accepted Answer

In parallel with the resistor

Question 6

Which of the following best describes the function of 'ground' in an electrical circuit?

Accepted Answer

It provides a reference point of zero voltage and a safe path for excess current.

Question 7

If three resistors $R_1 = 2\ \Omega$, $R_2 = 3\ \Omega$, and $R_3 = 6\ \Omega$ are connected in parallel, what is the equivalent resistance $R_{eq}$?

Accepted Answer

$R_{eq} = 1\ \Omega$

Question 8

In the circuit shown, $C_0 = 2.0\ nF$, $C_1 = 4.0\ nF$, $C_2 = 6.0\ nF$, and $V_B = 10\ V$. $C_1$ and $C_2$ are in parallel, and their combination is in series with $C_0$. What is the equivalent capacitance $C_{eq}$ of the circuit?

Accepted Answer

$C_{eq} = \frac{5}{3}\ nF$

Question 9

For the circuit in the previous question, what is the voltage across $C_0$?

Accepted Answer

$V_{C_0} = 6\ V$

Question 10

Which of the following is true about the current measured by an ammeter in a circuit?

Accepted Answer

An ammeter must be connected in series with the component.

Question 11

Two identical resistors $R$ are connected in parallel. What is the equivalent resistance?

Accepted Answer

$R_{eq} = \frac{R}{2}$

Question 12

A circuit contains two capacitors, $C_1 = 1.0\ \mu F$ and $C_2 = 2.0\ \mu F$, in series across a battery. Which capacitor has the larger potential difference across it?

Accepted Answer

$C_1$

Question 13

In a parallel combination of two capacitors, $C_1$ and $C_2$, which statement is true?

Accepted Answer

Both capacitors have the same voltage.

Question 14

A real-world application: Why is it dangerous if the ground connection in a household electrical system is broken?

Accepted Answer

It can result in a buildup of charge, increasing the risk of electric shock.

Question 15

If a wire with zero resistance connects two points in a circuit, what is the voltage difference between those points?

Accepted Answer

It is zero.

Question 16

A battery of voltage $V_B$ is connected to two capacitors, $C_1$ and $C_2$, in parallel. What is the total charge stored in the system?

Accepted Answer

$Q_{total} = (C_1 + C_2) V_B$

Question 17

Which of the following is a correct statement about the voltage across capacitors in parallel?

Accepted Answer

The voltage across each capacitor is equal to the battery voltage.

Question 18

A circuit contains two resistors, $R_1$ and $R_2$, in parallel. If $R_1 = 4\ \Omega$ and $R_2 = 12\ \Omega$, what is the equivalent resistance?

Accepted Answer

$R_{eq} = 3\ \Omega$

Series and Parallel Circuits: Resistors, Capacitors, and Grounding in Physics

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