UNIT 1 : DC Electric Circuit

Fundamentals of Electrical & Electronics Engineering

1.1 Definition of Electronics

Electronics is one of the most important branches of engineering that deals with the behaviour, control and utilization of electrons in electronic devices and circuits.

Definition (Institute of Radio Engineering – IRE)

“According to IRE (Institute of Radio Engineering), Electronics is a Branch of Science and Engineering which deals with the study of electronic devices, its processing and utilization.”

Simple Meaning:

Electronics studies devices such as Diodes, Transistors, ICs, Sensors and Microprocessors which are used for processing, controlling and transmitting electrical signals.

1.2 Applications of Electronics

Electronics plays a crucial role across many sectors, from defense and industrial automation to healthcare, telecommunication and domestic applications.

1. Defense

Radar, missile guidance, drones, secure satellite communication, sonar and night vision systems enhance national security.

2. Industrial & Instrumentation

PLCs, robots, inverters, oscilloscopes, multimeters, flow meters and pressure sensors are widely used for automation.

3. Medical

MRI, CT scanners, ECG machines, pacemakers, ultrasound equipment and pulse oximeters assist in diagnosis and patient care.

4. Telecommunication

Smartphones, satellite communication, fiber optic networks and wireless communication enable global connectivity.

5. Domestic

Smart TVs, refrigerators, washing machines, microwave ovens, smart lighting and wearable devices improve daily life.

1.3 Definition of Electrical Engineering

Electrical Engineering is the branch of engineering concerned with the generation, transmission, distribution and utilization of electrical power.

Definition

Electrical Engineering is the branch of engineering that deals with the study of generation, transmission, distribution and utilization of electrical power using devices such as generators, transformers, motors and transmission lines.

Examples: Generator • Transformer • Electric Motor • Power Station • Transmission Line

1.4 Applications of Electrical Engineering

Electrical engineering deals with the generation, transmission, distribution and utilization of electrical power for domestic, commercial and industrial applications.

1. Power Generation

Thermal, hydro, solar and wind power plants generate electricity which is supplied through transformers, substations and transmission lines.

2. Industrial

Electric motors, generators, industrial drives and protection systems operate industrial machines efficiently.

3. Transportation

Electric vehicles, metro railways, elevators, escalators and EV charging stations depend on electrical power.

4. Agriculture

Irrigation pumps, solar pumping systems, dairy equipment, grain processing machines and cold storage improve agricultural productivity.

5. Domestic & Commercial

Lighting systems, HVAC, water pumps, electrical wiring and commercial power distribution are essential in buildings.

1.5 Difference Between Electrical & Electronics Engineering

Electrical Engineering mainly deals with power, whereas Electronics Engineering deals with signals and information processing.

Electrical Engineering Electronics Engineering
High voltage & high current systems Low voltage & low current systems
Mainly uses AC Mainly uses DC
Generation, transmission & distribution of power Control, processing & communication of signals
Generators, Transformers, Motors Diodes, Transistors, ICs, Microprocessors
Power plants, substations, electric motors Mobile phones, computers, televisions, medical devices
Memory Tip

⚡ Electrical Engineering = Power Engineering
Generation • Transmission • Distribution • Utilization

🔋 Electronics Engineering = Signal Engineering
Control • Processing • Communication • Automation

2. Basic Electrical Quantities

Electrical quantities are the measurable parameters used to describe the behavior of an electrical circuit. The three most fundamental quantities are Current (I), Voltage (V), and Power (P).

2.1 Electric Current (I)

Definition

Electric current is the rate of flow of electric charge through a conductor. It is the movement of electrons caused by the applied voltage.

Standard Definition

Electric Current is the rate at which electric charge flows through a conductor.

Other Names:
Current • Electric Current • Flow of Charge • Line Current

Unit & Symbol

QuantityValue
SymbolI
SI UnitAmpere (A)
Measuring InstrumentAmmeter

Formula

I = Q / t

Where:

  • I = Current (Ampere)
  • Q = Electric Charge (Coulomb)
  • t = Time (Second)

Current Flow Diagram

Battery Load Current (I)

Worked Example

Question: If 10 Coulombs of charge flow in 2 seconds, calculate the current.

Solution

Given: Q = 10 C, t = 2 s

I = Q / t

I = 10 / 2 = 5 A

Answer: Current = 5 Ampere

2.2 Potential Difference (Voltage)

Definition

Potential Difference is the work done to move one Coulomb of charge from one point to another. It is the driving force that causes current to flow.

Standard Definition

Potential Difference is the amount of work done in moving a unit positive charge between two points in an electrical circuit.

Other Names:
Voltage • Potential Difference • Electric Potential • EMF (when produced by a battery)

Unit & Symbol

QuantityValue
SymbolV
SI UnitVolt (V)
Measuring InstrumentVoltmeter

Formula

V = W / Q

Where:

  • V = Voltage (Volt)
  • W = Work Done (Joule)
  • Q = Charge (Coulomb)

Voltage Across a Load

12V Load Voltage (V)

Worked Example

Question: A battery performs 24 J of work to move 6 C of charge. Find the voltage.

Solution

Given: W = 24 J, Q = 6 C

V = W / Q

V = 24 / 6 = 4 Volt

Answer: Voltage = 4 Volt

2.3 Electrical Power (P)

Definition

Electrical Power is the rate at which electrical energy is consumed or produced. It indicates how much electrical work is performed in one second.

Standard Definition

Electrical Power is the rate of conversion of electrical energy into another form of energy.

Other Name: Electric Power

Unit & Symbol

QuantityValue
SymbolP
SI UnitWatt (W)
Measuring InstrumentWattmeter

Formula

P = V × I

Where:

  • P = Power (Watt)
  • V = Voltage (Volt)
  • I = Current (Ampere)

Power Consumed by Load

12V 💡 I = 2A

Worked Example

Question: A bulb operates at 12 V and draws 2 A. Calculate the power.

Solution

Given: V = 12 V, I = 2 A

P = V × I

P = 12 × 2 = 24 Watt

Answer: Power = 24 Watt

Important Concept

  • Voltage (V) provides the driving force.
  • Current (I) is the flow of electrons caused by voltage.
  • Power (P) is the electrical energy consumed by the load.

Power Triangle

P V I

From the Power Triangle:

P = V × I

V = P / I

I = P / V

2.4 Summary of Basic Electrical Quantities

Quantity Symbol SI Unit Formula Meaning
Electric Current I Ampere (A) I = Q / t Flow of electric charge
Voltage V Volt (V) V = W / Q Driving force of current
Electrical Power P Watt (W) P = V × I Rate of electrical energy consumption
Remember: Current is the **flow**, Voltage is the **driving force**, and Power is the **rate of energy consumption**.

3. Passive Electronic Components

Passive electronic components are devices that do not generate electrical energy. They either oppose, store or transfer electrical energy in an electrical circuit. The three fundamental passive components are Resistor, Capacitor and Inductor.

Remember:
⚡ Resistor → Opposes Current    🔋 Capacitor → Stores Electric Charge    🧲 Inductor → Stores Magnetic Energy

3.1 Resistor

A resistor is an electrical component that limits or regulates the flow of electric current in a circuit. It is one of the most basic and widely used components in electronics.

Resistor is a Component
Resistance is its electrical value measured in Ohms (Ω).

Construction of Resistor

Typical Carbon Film Resistor

Definition

A resistor is a passive two-terminal device that opposes the flow of electric current by converting electrical energy into heat. The amount of resistance it offers is measured in Ohms (Ω).

Denoted By

ParameterValue
LetterR
UnitOhm (Ω)
ExampleR = 10 Ω

Resistor Symbol

Circuit Symbol of Resistor

Types of Resistors

Fixed Resistors

Resistance value remains constant.

  • Carbon Composition
  • Metal Film
  • Wire Wound

Variable Resistors

Resistance can be adjusted manually.

  • Potentiometer
  • Rheostat
  • Trimmer

Classification of Resistor

Classification of Linear & Non-linear Resistors

Formula

R = ρL / A

ρ = Resistivity    L = Length    A = Cross-sectional Area

Advantages

  • Simple Design
  • Cost Effective
  • Stable Operation
  • Heat Dissipation

Disadvantages

  • Energy Loss
  • Limited Control
  • Heat Generation

Applications

  • Current Limiting
  • Voltage Divider
  • Signal Conditioning
  • Transistor Biasing
  • Electric Heater
Resistor Colour Coding:
Colour coding is used to identify the resistance value of fixed resistors. Solved examples will be covered during lecture sessions.

3.2 Capacitor

A capacitor is a passive electrical component that stores electrical energy in an electric field. It consists of two conductive plates separated by an insulating material called dielectric.

Capacitor is the component, whereas Capacitance is its value.

Construction of Capacitor

Parallel Plate Capacitor Construction

Definition

A capacitor is a passive electronic component that stores electrical energy in the form of an electric field between its two conductive plates.

Denoted By

ParameterValue
LetterC
UnitFarad (F)
Practical UnitsμF, nF, pF

Capacitor Symbols

Fixed & Variable Capacitor Symbols

Types of Capacitors

Fixed Capacitors

  • Ceramic
  • Electrolytic
  • Film
  • Mica
  • Paper
  • Glass

Applications

  • Power Supply Filtering
  • Timing Circuits
  • Coupling / Decoupling
  • Motor Starting
  • Energy Storage

Formula

C = εA / d

ε = Permittivity    A = Plate Area    d = Distance Between Plates

Advantages

  • Stores Electrical Energy
  • Noise Filtering
  • Blocks DC
  • Long Life
  • Low Heat Loss

Disadvantages

  • Low Energy Density
  • Leakage Current
  • Large Size at High Values
  • Polarized Types Need Correct Polarity
  • Voltage Rating Limitation

3.3 Inductor

An inductor is a passive electronic component that stores energy in a magnetic field when electric current flows through a coil of wire.

Inductor is the component, whereas Inductance is its value measured in Henry (H).

Construction of Inductor

Construction of Coil Type Inductor

Definition

An inductor is a passive component that opposes changes in current by producing a magnetic field.

Denoted By

ParameterValue
LetterL
UnitHenry (H)
Practical UnitsmH, μH

Inductor Symbols

Air Core, Iron Core, Ferrite Core & Variable Inductor

Types of Inductors

Core Types

  • Air Core
  • Iron Core
  • Ferrite Core
  • Variable Core

Applications

  • Power Supplies
  • Transformers
  • Filters
  • SMPS Energy Storage
  • Inductive Sensors

Formula

L = NΦ / I

N = Number of Turns    Φ = Magnetic Flux    I = Current

Advantages

  • Magnetic Energy Storage
  • Current Smoothing
  • Filtering
  • Wireless Energy Transfer
  • Transformer Operation

Disadvantages

  • Bulky Size
  • Heavy Iron Core
  • Copper & Core Losses
  • Expensive
  • Magnetic Interference
Quick Comparison
Resistor → Opposes current | Capacitor → Stores electric field energy | Inductor → Stores magnetic field energy

4. Waveform Representation & Signal Characteristics

In electrical and electronics engineering, voltage and current vary with time. This variation is represented graphically using a waveform. Understanding waveform characteristics is essential for analysing AC circuits and signals.

Learning Outcome:
After this section you will be able to identify waveform, full cycle, frequency, time period and amplitude of an AC signal.

4.1 Waveform Representation

Sinusoidal AC Waveform Representation

Definition

A waveform is the graphical representation of the magnitude of an electrical quantity (Voltage or Current) on the Y-axis with respect to Time on the X-axis. The most common waveform in AC systems is the sine wave, although square, triangular and sawtooth waveforms also exist.

Mathematical Expression of Instantaneous Voltage

v(t) = Vm sin ωt

Where,

Symbol Meaning
v(t) Instantaneous value of voltage (or current)
Vm Maximum (Peak) Voltage
ω Angular Frequency (ω = 2πf)
t Time in seconds
Important: If the equation represents current, simply replace Vm with Im.

4.2 Signal Characteristics

Important Characteristics of an AC Waveform

1. Full Cycle

A Full Cycle is one complete oscillation of an AC waveform consisting of one positive half-cycle and one negative half-cycle. This pattern repeats continuously.

Positive Half Cycle

The portion of the waveform above the zero reference line. It starts from zero, reaches the maximum positive value and returns to zero.

Negative Half Cycle

The portion below the zero reference line. It starts from zero, reaches the maximum negative value and returns to zero.

2. Frequency (f)

Frequency is the number of complete cycles produced in one second. It is measured in Hertz (Hz).
f = 1 / T
Country Supply Frequency
India / Asian Countries 50 Hz
United States 60 Hz

3. Time Period (T)

Time period is the time required to complete one full cycle of an AC waveform. It is measured in seconds (s) or milliseconds.
T = 1 / f

4. Amplitude (Peak Value)

Amplitude is the maximum value of voltage or current reached during one cycle. It is also called the Peak Value.
Quantity Symbol
Peak Voltage Vm
Peak Current Im
Remember:
Amplitude tells us how high the waveform rises, while Frequency tells us how fast it repeats.

4.3 Summary Table

Quantity Symbol Unit Formula Meaning
Frequency f Hertz (Hz) f = 1/T Number of cycles per second
Time Period T Second (s) T = 1/f Time required for one cycle
Amplitude Vm, Im Volt / Ampere Maximum Value Peak value of waveform
Full Cycle — Cycle Positive + Negative Half Cycle One complete oscillation
Exam Tip:
Students are frequently asked to define Frequency, Time Period, Amplitude and draw a labelled AC waveform. Make sure your uploaded wavechar.png clearly shows all these parameters.

5. Ohm's Law

Ohm's Law is the fundamental law of electrical engineering that establishes the relationship between Voltage (V), Current (I) and Resistance (R). It was proposed by the German physicist Georg Simon Ohm in 1827 and forms the basis for analysing DC electrical circuits.

Learning Outcome:
After studying this topic, students will be able to calculate Voltage, Current and Resistance using Ohm's Law and apply it to solve basic DC circuit numericals.

5.1 Definition

Ohm's Law:

At constant temperature, the current flowing through a conductor is directly proportional to the applied voltage and inversely proportional to its resistance.
I = V / R

Basic Mathematical Expression of Ohm's Law

Symbol Meaning SI Unit
I Electric Current Ampere (A)
V Potential Difference / Voltage Volt (V)
R Resistance Ohm (Ω)

5.2 Relationship Between Voltage, Current & Resistance

The three electrical quantities are interdependent. Increasing voltage increases current, whereas increasing resistance decreases current.

V I R Direct Inverse I ∝ V / R
Condition Effect on Current
Voltage increases Current increases
Voltage decreases Current decreases
Resistance increases Current decreases
Resistance decreases Current increases

5.3 Ohm's Law Triangle

The Ohm's Triangle is a simple memory technique to derive all three formulas without memorising them separately.

V I R

Current

I = V / R

Voltage

V = I × R

Resistance

R = V / I

5.4 Live Ohm's Law Demonstration

Move the sliders below and observe how changing Voltage or Resistance affects the value of Current instantly according to Ohm's Law.

● LIVE SIMULATION
Voltage
12 V
Current
2.00 A
Resistance
6 Ω
V A I = 2.00A R = 6 Ω
1 V 24 V
1 Ω 20 Ω
Ohm's Law
I = 12 / 6 = 2.00 A

💡 Observation

  • Current is directly proportional to Voltage.
  • Current is inversely proportional to Resistance.
  • This experimentally verifies Ohm's Law.
Observation:
Increasing the voltage while keeping resistance constant increases current. Increasing resistance while keeping voltage constant decreases current. This experimentally verifies Ohm's Law.

5.5 Solved Numerical Examples

Numerical 1

Given:
V = 12 V
R = 4 Ω

Formula: I = V / R

I = 12/4 = 3 A

Answer: 3 Ampere

Numerical 2

Given:
I = 2 A
R = 10 Ω

Formula: V = I × R

V = 2 × 10 = 20 V

Answer: 20 Volt

Numerical 3

Given:
V = 24 V
I = 3 A

Formula: R = V / I

R = 24/3 = 8 Ω

Answer: 8 Ohm

5.6 Real-Life Applications of Ohm's Law

LED Protection

Series resistors are used to limit current and protect LEDs from damage.

Electrical Measurements

Engineers calculate unknown voltage, current and resistance using Ohm's Law.

Heating Appliances

Electric irons, heaters and geysers convert electrical energy into heat through resistance.

Voltage Divider

Used in sensors, analog circuits and electronic measuring instruments.

5.7 Limitations of Ohm's Law

Ohm's Law is applicable only to ohmic conductors where temperature and other physical conditions remain constant. It does not accurately describe the behaviour of nonlinear semiconductor devices.

Applicable Not Applicable
Metallic conductors PN Junction Diodes
Constant temperature circuits Transistors
Linear resistive networks Electrolytes
DC resistive circuits Filament lamps (variable temperature)
Conclusion:
Ohm's Law is one of the most important fundamental laws used for analysing DC electrical circuits and forms the foundation for Kirchhoff's Laws, network analysis and electrical measurements.

5.8 Quick Revision Summary

Quantity Symbol Unit Formula
Voltage V Volt V = I × R
Current I Ampere I = V / R
Resistance R Ohm R = V / I
Memory Tip:
Use the VIR Triangle to derive any Ohm's Law equation instantly during examinations.

6. Kirchhoff's Current Law (KCL)

Kirchhoff's Current Law (KCL) is one of the fundamental laws used for analysing electrical circuits. It is based on the Law of Conservation of Charge, which states that electric charge can neither be created nor destroyed. Therefore, the total current entering a junction must always equal the total current leaving the junction.

Learning Outcome:
After studying this topic, students will be able to apply KCL to determine unknown branch currents in electrical circuits and solve junction-based numerical problems.

6.1 Definition

Kirchhoff's Current Law (KCL):

The total current or charge entering a junction or node is precisely equal to the total current or charge exiting the node, as no charge is lost at the node. In simple words, Total Current Entering = Total Current Leaving
ΣI = 0

or   I₁ + I₂ = I₃ + I₄

6.2 What is a Node (Junction)?

A Node is a common connecting point where two or more conductors meet. KCL is always applied at a node to analyse the flow of current.

Node with currents I1-I5: entering currents I4, I5 and leaving currents I1, I2, I3, with sign convention -I1-I2+I3+I4+I5=0
Memory Tip:
🟢 Entering currents are considered positive. 🔴 Leaving currents are considered negative. The algebraic sum is always zero.

6.3 Live KCL Demonstration

Move the sliders below and observe how the outgoing current automatically changes to satisfy Kirchhoff's Current Law.

🟢 LIVE KCL SIMULATION
Incoming I₁
4
Ampere
Incoming I₂
3
Ampere
Outgoing I₃
7
Ampere
I₁ I₂ I₃ Current Junction
4 A
3 A
Kirchhoff's Current Law
4 A + 3 A = 7 A
Total Current Entering = Total Current Leaving
💡 Observation:
Increasing I₁ increases the outgoing current. Increasing I₂ also increases the outgoing current. The node always satisfies ΣI = 0.

6.4 Mathematical Expression

If currents I₁ and I₂ enter the node while I₃ and I₄ leave the node:

I₁ + I₂ = I₃ + I₄

or

I₁ + I₂ − I₃ − I₄ = 0
Symbol Description
I₁, I₂ Incoming branch currents
I₃, I₄ Outgoing branch currents
ΣI Algebraic sum of currents at a node

6.5 Solved Numerical Examples

Featured Example: Six-Branch Node

Node P with six branches: 0.2A, 0.4A, 0.6A, 0.5A, 0.7A known and unknown current I

Apply KCL at node P. By sign convention, currents flowing toward P are positive and currents flowing away from P are negative:

0.2 A − 0.4 A + 0.6 A − 0.5 A + 0.7 A − I = 0
1.5 A − 0.9 A − I = 0
I = 0.6 A

Answer: I = 0.6 Ampere

Example 1

Given:

  • I₁ = 4 A
  • I₂ = 6 A

Find outgoing current I₃.

I₃ = I₁ + I₂
I₃ = 10 A

Answer: 10 Ampere

Example 2

Given:

  • Incoming = 12 A
  • Outgoing I₁ = 5 A

Find I₂.

12 = 5 + I₂
I₂ = 7 A

Answer: 7 Ampere

Example 3

Given:

  • I₁ = 3 A
  • I₂ = 2 A
  • I₃ = 1 A

Find I₄.

3 + 2 = 1 + I₄
I₄ = 4 A

Answer: 4 Ampere

6.6 Applications of KCL

🔌

Distribution Networks

Used for analysing current distribution in electrical wiring systems.

🖥️

PCB Design

Helps engineers determine branch currents in electronic circuits.

🔀

Parallel Circuits

Current divides among branches according to circuit resistance.

6.7 Advantages of KCL

Accurate Analysis

Provides accurate calculation of branch currents in complex networks.

Simple Method

Requires only current values at a single junction.

Foundation Law

Forms the basis of nodal analysis used in electrical engineering.

6.8 Quick Revision Summary

Concept Details
Law Name Kirchhoff's Current Law (KCL)
Based On Conservation of Electric Charge
Statement Total Incoming Current = Total Outgoing Current
Formula ΣI = 0
Applied At Node / Junction
Used For Finding Unknown Branch Currents
Exam Tip:
Whenever you see a junction with multiple branches, immediately write ΣI = 0 before solving the numerical. This is the standard university approach.

7. Kirchhoff's Voltage Law (KVL)

Kirchhoff's Voltage Law is one of the most important laws used for analysing electrical circuits. It states that the algebraic sum of all voltages around any closed loop is always equal to zero. It is based on the Law of Conservation of Energy.

Definition:

The voltage drop around a loop equals the algebraic sum total of the voltage drop across every electrical component linked in the same loop for any closed network, and is equal to zero.
Memory Rule:
🔋 Voltage supplied by the source = Total voltage consumed by the loads.

Kirchhoff's Voltage Law Statement

∑V = 0

Mathematically:

Vs − V₁ − V₂ − V₃ = 0

Where:

  • Vs = Source Voltage
  • V₁ = Voltage across Resistor 1
  • V₂ = Voltage across Resistor 2
  • V₃ = Voltage across Resistor 3

KVL Circuit Representation

Closed loop P-Q-R-S with four resistors R, showing the loop-traversal arrow and VPQ + VQR + VRS + VSP = 0
In a closed loop, the battery provides voltage while each resistor consumes a portion of it. Their total must always equal the source voltage.

Voltage Sign Convention

Traversal Direction Voltage Sign
Across Battery (− → +) + Voltage Rise
Across Battery (+ → −) − Voltage Drop
Across Resistor (Current Direction) − IR Drop
Opposite Current Direction + IR Rise

Steps to Apply KVL

Step 1

Select any one closed loop in the circuit.

Step 2

Choose clockwise or anticlockwise direction.

Step 3

Assign + for voltage rise and − for voltage drop.

Step 4

Add all voltages and equate the sum to zero.

Live KVL Demonstration

18 V

3 Ω

6 Ω

9 Ω


1.00 A

Loop Current

3.00 V

Drop across R1

6.00 V

Drop across R2

9.00 V

Drop across R3


KVL Verification

18 − 3 − 6 − 9 = 0

✔ Kirchhoff's Voltage Law Satisfied

Worked Numerical

Featured Example: Two-Source Series Loop

Series loop with sources E1=10V, E2=5V and resistors R1=10 ohm, R2, R3=5 ohm each

Find the current through R₁ = 10 Ω, given R₂ = R₃ = 5 Ω, using Kirchhoff's Voltage Law.

Taking the loop current i in the clockwise direction and applying KVL around the loop:

−10 + 5i + 5i + 10i + 5 = 0
20i − 5 = 0
i = 5 / 20 = 0.25 A

Answer: The current through R₁ is 0.25 A (1/4 Ampere).

Problem:
A 24 V battery supplies three resistors connected in series:
  • R₁ = 2 Ω
  • R₂ = 4 Ω
  • R₃ = 6 Ω
Find the loop current and verify KVL.

Step 1: Total Resistance

RT = 2 + 4 + 6 = 12 Ω

Step 2: Current

I = 24 / 12 = 2 A

Step 3: Voltage Drops

  • V₁ = I × R₁ = 2 × 2 = 4 V
  • V₂ = I × R₂ = 2 × 4 = 8 V
  • V₃ = I × R₃ = 2 × 6 = 12 V

Verification

24 − 4 − 8 − 12 = 0

Answer: Loop current = 2 A and KVL is verified successfully.

Important Observations

Conservation of Energy

The total energy supplied by the source equals the energy consumed by all loads.

Closed Loop Only

KVL can be applied only to a complete closed electrical path.

Series Circuits

The source voltage is divided among resistors according to their resistance values.

Exam Tip:
Always mention the traversal direction (Clockwise/Anticlockwise) before writing the KVL equation. This earns presentation marks in university examinations.

7. Series & Parallel Circuit

Electrical components can be connected in two fundamental ways: Series Connection and Parallel Connection. Understanding these connections is essential for analysing household wiring, electronic circuits and industrial electrical systems.

Learning Outcome:
Students will be able to identify series and parallel circuits, calculate equivalent resistance and analyse current & voltage distribution.

7.1 Series Circuit

A Series Circuit is an electrical circuit in which all components are connected one after another in a single path. Therefore, the same current flows through every component.

Series Circuit Diagram

Vs R1 R2 R3 Same Current (I)

Characteristics of Series Circuit

ParameterSeries Circuit
CurrentSame through all components
VoltageDivides across each resistor
ResistanceIncreases by addition
Current PathOnly one path

Equivalent Resistance Formula

RT = R1 + R2 + R3

7.2 Parallel Circuit

A Parallel Circuit is a circuit in which all components are connected across the same two terminals. Therefore, the same voltage appears across every branch.

Parallel Circuit Diagram

Vs R1 R2 R3 Same Voltage Across All Branches

Characteristics of Parallel Circuit

ParameterParallel Circuit
VoltageSame across every branch
CurrentDivides into branches
ResistanceAlways less than the smallest resistor
Current PathMultiple paths

Equivalent Resistance Formula

**Interactive Formula Visualization**

7.3 Difference Between Series & Parallel Circuit

Series Circuit Parallel Circuit
Single current path Multiple current paths
Current remains same Voltage remains same
Voltage divides Current divides
RT = R1 + R2 + R3 1/RT = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3
Failure of one component opens the circuit Other branches continue working
Example: Decorative LED strip Example: Household wiring

7.4 Live Series & Parallel Demonstration

Change the resistor values below and observe how the equivalent resistance changes in both circuits.

R1

10 Ω

R2

20 Ω

R3

30 Ω







Series Equivalent

60 Ω
RT = R1 + R2 + R3

Parallel Equivalent

5.45 Ω
Equivalent Resistance

7.5 Solved Numerical

**Problem:** Three resistors of **2 Ω, 4 Ω and 6 Ω** are connected in series. Find the equivalent resistance. **Solution:** RT = R1 + R2 + R3 = 2 + 4 + 6 = **12 Ω** **Answer:** **Equivalent Resistance = 12 Ω**
**Problem:** The same resistors are connected in parallel.
1/RT = 1/2 + 1/4 + 1/6
RT = 1.09 Ω
**Answer:** **Equivalent Resistance = 1.09 Ω**

7.6 Real-Life Applications

Series Connection

Decorative LED strings and torch batteries commonly use series connection.

Parallel Connection

House wiring uses parallel circuits so every appliance receives the same voltage.

Industrial Systems

Battery banks and power distribution networks frequently employ parallel connections.

7.7 Quick Revision Summary

Parameter Series Parallel
Current Same Divides
Voltage Divides Same
Equivalent Resistance Sum of resistors Reciprocal formula
Paths One Many
Used In Battery cells, LED strips Home wiring, industries
Exam Tip:
If the question asks **same current**, think Series Circuit. If it asks **same voltage**, think Parallel Circuit.

8. Star (Y) / Delta (Δ) Transformation

Star–Delta transformation is a network analysis technique used to convert a Star (Y) connected resistive network into an equivalent Delta (Δ) network and vice versa. It is especially useful when a circuit cannot be simplified using ordinary series–parallel reduction.

Learning Outcome:
Students will be able to identify Star and Delta networks, perform Y–Δ conversion and solve numerical problems.

8.1 Star (Y) Network

A Star (Y) network consists of three resistors connected to a common central point. It is commonly used in three-phase electrical systems.

Star Circuit Diagram

Ra Rb Rc A B C O
ParameterStar (Y)
ShapeY shaped
Common NodePresent
Number of Resistors3
ApplicationThree-phase systems

8.2 Delta (Δ) Network

A Delta (Δ) network consists of three resistors connected in a closed triangular loop. Each resistor is connected between two terminals.

Delta Circuit Diagram

Rab Rca Rbc A B C
ParameterDelta (Δ)
ShapeTriangle
Common NodeNot Present
Number of Resistors3
ApplicationMotor winding & network analysis

8.3 Star to Delta Formula

RAB = Ra + Rb + (Ra × Rb)/Rc
RBC = Rb + Rc + (Rb × Rc)/Ra
RCA = Rc + Ra + (Rc × Ra)/Rb
Memory Trick:
Each Delta resistor = Sum of adjacent Star resistors + Product ÷ Opposite resistor.

8.4 Delta to Star Formula

Ra = (RAB × RCA)/(RAB + RBC + RCA)
Rb = (RAB × RBC)/(RAB + RBC + RCA)
Rc = (RBC × RCA)/(RAB + RBC + RCA)

8.5 Live Star → Delta Demonstration

Move the sliders below and observe how the equivalent Delta resistances change instantly.

2 Ω

3 Ω

4 Ω


RAB

6.50 Ω

RBC

13.00 Ω

RCA

8.67 Ω

Live Formula Verification

RAB = 2 + 3 + (2×3)/4 = 6.50 Ω

RBC = 3 + 4 + (3×4)/2 = 13.00 Ω

RCA = 4 + 2 + (4×2)/3 = 8.67 Ω


8.6 Solved Numerical 1 (Star → Delta)

Problem:
Convert the following Star network into an equivalent Delta network.
  • Ra = 2 Ω
  • Rb = 3 Ω
  • Rc = 6 Ω

Step 1: Calculate RAB

RAB = 2 + 3 + (2×3)/6

RAB = 6 Ω


Step 2: Calculate RBC

RBC = 3 + 6 + (3×6)/2

RBC = 18 Ω


Step 3: Calculate RCA

RCA = 6 + 2 + (6×2)/3

RCA = 12 Ω


Answer:
Delta ResistanceValue
RAB6 Ω
RBC18 Ω
RCA12 Ω

8.7 Solved Numerical 2 (Delta → Star)

Problem:
Convert the following Delta network into an equivalent Star network.
  • RAB = 6 Ω
  • RBC = 18 Ω
  • RCA = 12 Ω

Total Delta Resistance

6 + 18 + 12 = 36 Ω


Calculate Ra

Ra = (6×12)/36 = 2 Ω


Calculate Rb

Rb = (6×18)/36 = 3 Ω


Calculate Rc

Rc = (18×12)/36 = 6 Ω


Answer:
Star ResistanceValue
Ra2 Ω
Rb3 Ω
Rc6 Ω

8.8 Applications of Star–Delta Transformation

Three-Phase Transformers

Used for voltage conversion in electrical power systems.

Star–Delta Motor Starter

Reduces starting current of induction motors.

Bridge Network Analysis

Helps simplify complex resistor networks.

8.9 Quick Revision Summary

Feature Star (Y) Delta (Δ)
Shape Y Triangle
Common Node Present Absent
Formula Product / Sum Sum + Product / Opposite
Applications 3-Phase Supply Motor & Network Analysis
Exam Tip:
If a circuit cannot be reduced using Series–Parallel rules, first identify whether it contains a Star (Y) or Delta (Δ) network and apply the appropriate transformation formula.