1. Circuits and Circuit Elements
Complex Resistor Combinations

2. Resistors Combined in Both Parallel and in Series
Fuse – an electrical device containing a metal strip that melts when current in the circuit becomes too great
Used to prevent overload
Circuit breaker – a device that protects a circuit from current overloads
Trip when the current overloads
Acts like a switch

3. Resistors Combined Both in Parallel and in Series
Complex circuits have resistors arranged both in series and in parallel
You must simplify the groups of resistors
Work with a small group that is all in series or in parallel
After you have simplified the small groups, start combining groups until you have “created” a de facto simple circuit and can find the equivalent resistance for the circuit
Work backward to find current or potential difference

4. Resistors Combined Both in Parallel and in Series

5. Resistors Combined Both in Parallel and in Series