1. What is Current in a Parallel Circuit?

Definition: This calculator determines the current flowing through a single branch in a parallel electrical circuit.

Purpose: It helps electricians, engineers, and students analyze and design parallel circuits by calculating branch currents.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses Ohm's Law for parallel branches:

Where:

• \( I_{branch} \) — Current through the branch (amperes)
• \( V \) — Voltage across the branch (volts)
• \( R_{branch} \) — Resistance of the branch (ohms)

Explanation: In a parallel circuit, the voltage is the same across all branches, but current divides according to each branch's resistance.

3. Importance of Branch Current Calculation

Details: Calculating branch currents is essential for proper circuit design, component selection, and safety considerations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the circuit voltage and the specific branch resistance. Both values must be positive (resistance > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's different about current in parallel vs series circuits?
A: In parallel circuits, current divides among branches, while in series circuits the same current flows through all components.

Q2: How do I calculate total current in a parallel circuit?
A: Calculate each branch current using this formula, then sum all branch currents for the total.

Q3: What happens if one branch has very low resistance?
A: It will draw proportionally more current, potentially requiring a larger wire gauge or fuse for that branch.

Q4: Does this work for AC circuits?
A: For purely resistive AC circuits, yes. For reactive components, you'll need to consider impedance (Z) instead of just resistance.

Q5: Why is voltage the same across all parallel branches?
A: This is a fundamental characteristic of parallel circuits - all branches connect to the same two points in the circuit.