Kirchhoff's Second Law (OCR A Level Physics)

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Kirchhoff's Second Law

  • Kirchhoff’s second law states that:

The sum of the e.m.f’s in a closed circuit equals the sum of the potential differences

  • This is a consequence of the conservation of energy

Kirchoff's second law in a series circuit, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

The sum of the voltages are equal to the sum of the e.m.f from the batteries

 
  • In a series circuit, the voltage is split across all components depending on their resistance
    • The sum of the voltages is equal to the total e.m.f of the power supply

  • In a parallel circuit, the voltage is the same across each closed loop
    • The sum of the voltages in each closed circuit loop is equal to the total e.m.f of the power supply:

Kirchoff's second law in a parallel circuit, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

  • A closed circuit loop acts as its own independent series circuit and each one separates at a junction
    • A parallel circuit is made up of two or more of these loops

Loops in parallel circuit, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

Each circuit loops acts as a separate, independent series circuit

  • This is why parallel circuits are incredibly useful for home wiring systems
    • A single power source supplies all lights and appliances with the same voltage
    • If one light breaks, voltage and current can still flow through for the rest of the lights and appliances

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Ashika

Author: Ashika

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Ashika graduated with a first-class Physics degree from Manchester University and, having worked as a software engineer, focused on Physics education, creating engaging content to help students across all levels. Now an experienced GCSE and A Level Physics and Maths tutor, Ashika helps to grow and improve our Physics resources.