In direct-current (DC) power distribution, parallel circuit configurations govern how voltage, current, and resistance interact under various operating states. Match each parallel circuit modification on the left with its corresponding electrical outcome on the right.
- Adding an additional resistive branch in parallelDecreases total equivalent resistance and increases total source current without changing existing branch currents
- Developing an open-circuit fault in one parallel branchDecreases total circuit current by the lost branch current while remaining branches continue operating normally
- Developing a short-circuit fault across one branchBypasses all branch resistances, dropping total resistance near zero and triggering circuit protection
- Increasing the main DC supply voltageIncreases the voltage drop and current flow proportionally across all connected branches simultaneously
Answer
Adding an additional resistive branch matches with decreasing total equivalent resistance and increasing total source current; an open-circuit fault matches with decreasing total circuit current while remaining branches operate normally; a short-circuit fault matches with dropping total resistance near zero and triggering circuit protection; and increasing main supply voltage matches with increasing the voltage drop and current across all branches simultaneously.
In parallel networks, the total equivalent resistance decreases when branches are added and increases when branches are removed. Full line voltage is maintained across every branch independently, meaning faults in one branch (such as an open) do not disrupt the operation of other branches, whereas a direct short bridges the common voltage bus and triggers circuit protection.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Parallel Circuit Governing Rules and Fault Characteristics
Estimated Time:1m 15s