Question

What is an open and a closed circuit?

Answer 1

An open circuit is one where the continuity has been broken by an interruption in the path for current to flow. A closed circuit is one that is complete, with good continuity throughout. A device designed to open or close a circuit under controlled conditions is called a switch.

Complete step-by-step answer:

We know that current is flow of charge from higher potential to lower potential here charges are electrons thus this flow form current i.e. the force that is involved in flowing the charges is called electromotive force or EMF. The concept of open and closed circuit comes into play.

Closed circuit: Basically, in closed circuit one end is connected with higher potential and the other end with lower potential therefore potential difference is created which makes charge flow from one end to other end. Then we say the circuit is closed as there is no break in the path of the electron so they form current that is why current always flows in a closed circuit.

Open circuit: As we gone through closed circuit, we get to know charges only flow when there is electromotive force (emf) as soon as circuit is incomplete the potential difference at both of the end remain same due to zero emf charges or electron does not flow thus we say circuit is open as shown in figure below.

Note: Charges flow only where potential difference such as water flow when there is height difference also called potential head. If there is no height difference water will not flow the same with charges.