Electrician's Licensing Practice Exam

In a parallel circuit, how is each load connected?

1. In a series path

2. In a separate path

3. In a circular path

4. In a combined circuit

The correct answer is: In a separate path

In a parallel circuit, each load is connected in a separate path that allows for individual current flow through each component. This means that the voltage across each load is the same, and the operation of one load does not affect the others. If one load fails or is disconnected, the other loads continue to operate normally, which is a critical characteristic of parallel connections. This design is often utilized in household wiring because it ensures that electrical devices can work independently. The other connection types specified do not accurately describe how loads are organized in a parallel circuit. For example, in a series path, all loads share the same current, and if one load fails, the entire circuit is disrupted. Circular or combined circuit configurations do not reflect the independent operational nature of loads in a parallel arrangement. Hence, the most accurate description of load connections in a parallel circuit is through separate paths.