Question

How are parallel circuits used in homes?

Answer 1

This is an application-based question on the use of parallel circuits. There are mainly two types of circuit connection available: series and parallel, out of which parallel connection is said to be used in homes more often as it provides full potential to each line connected to it, which is the primary aspect in a home connection. This is a simple question, if the concept of parallel circuit is understood properly.

Complete answer:
Parallel circuits are used throughout homes because they allow current to keep flowing through various paths, so it is not restricted to flow through one path. The loads can be operated independently of each other. If the circuit contains only lights connected in series, the lights will get dimmer with the addition of more lights. A parallel circuit doesn't do that, each load gets the full voltage of the circuit.

Here are two examples of parallel circuits in home: -
$\bullet$ Most times, the electrical outlets in a particular room will be on a single circuit, because the single circuit can usually handle the load of several devices. If this was a series circuit, it would need to have something hooked up to every outlet and powered ON to turn a single device on.
$\bullet$ Within a multi-bulb light system, a parallel circuit ensures that when one bulb burns out, the others still stay lit because each light has its own circuit. In a series circuit all the bulbs would go out - then figuring out which one is "burned out" is like figuring out which bulb has gone on a string of Christmas lights.

Note:
These types of application-based questions are frequently asked in papers, as these test the understanding of the topic. Also, it’s nice to take an example and explain the concept as that will help to give a proper understanding of what the solution is trying to say and it will also give a proper depth to the answer.