A series circuit comprises four components, including a source, load, circuit control, and a path for conduction. Each is equally important to the function of the circuit.
Loads Get the Work Done
The first component of the series circuit to be considered is the load. Loads use the energy in a circuit to perform some beneficial task. A bulb is a good example of a load. Bulbs convert energy into light; a task which we benefit from in many ways. A speaker is another example. Speakers convert electrical energy into mechanical movement which, in turn, produces sound. Quite simply, loads perform work.
Sources Provide Potential
A source provides the potential, or energy, for getting work done in the series circuit. Potential is expressed in volts; the higher the voltage, the higher the potential. A battery is one example of a source. Alone, the battery appears to have no apparent use, but when connected to a circuit, sources have the ability to push electrons through a conductor so the load can perform its task. The energy stored in a battery is converted into work by the load. Sources are typically rated in direct current (DC) voltage or alternating current (AC) voltage.
Circuit Controls Open and Close the Path
Controls provide the ability to open or close the series circuit. Any on/off switch is a good example. Opening (turning off) and closing (turning on) the circuit gives the advantage, and convenience, of controlling loads and conserving energy expended from the source. When a switch is opened, a path for conduction (electron flow) no longer exists, therefore, the potential energy cannot be used by the load.
Conductors Provide the Path
A path is comprised of conductors. Conductors, such as insulated wire, tie the components of the series circuit together. They provide a path to get electrons from the source to the load, and back again. As electrons move through conductors it is called current, measured in ampheres (amps). When the movement of electrons increases, amps are expressed in higher values. A conductor must be made of material that allows free movement of electrons. Copper and aluminum are the most common, but silver and gold are also commonly used in electronics.
Circuit Protection Reduces Damage and Danger
One additional component of a series circuit should be discussed. Though not required, circuit protection devices also play a vital role by keeping damage and danger to a minimum when a fault occurs. Circuit protection devices, fuses and circuit breakers for example, open the circuit and stop the flow of current. Most are designed to detect over-current situations, but they can also be configured to detect thermal and voltage irregularities. When a protection device has opened a circuit, the device must be replaced or reset once the problem has been rectified.
Each component of a series circuit is essential to its proper performance, and the series circuit is vital to any electronic device.
Source: Iowa State University, Center for Nondestructive Evaluation, NDT Resource Center
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