In a parallel circuit, what is the relationship of Vs across components?

In a parallel circuit, what is the relationship of Vs across components?

• A. Vs = V1 + V2 + V3
• B. Vs = R1 + R2 + R3
• C. Vs = V1 = V2 = V3
• D. Vs = I1 + I2 + I3

Answer: (C)

In a parallel circuit, all branches experience the same potential difference because they’re connected across the same two points. That means the voltage across each component matches the source voltage: V1 = V2 = V3 = Vs. This is why that option is the correct description. Remember, in parallel the currents in each branch add up to the total current, while voltages stay the same across all branches. (Total resistance in parallel isn’t simply the sum of resistances.)

In a parallel circuit, all branches experience the same potential difference because they’re connected across the same two points. That means the voltage across each component matches the source voltage: V1 = V2 = V3 = Vs. This is why that option is the correct description. Remember, in parallel the currents in each branch add up to the total current, while voltages stay the same across all branches. (Total resistance in parallel isn’t simply the sum of resistances.)