AP Physics 2: Algebra-Based Flashcards: Compound Direct Current (DC) Circuits
Written by AP Content Team, Verified for 2026 AP Exams, Last updated: May 2026
Review key ideas with interactive flashcards. This set includes 16 cards to help you master important concepts.
How does the equivalent resistance of a series circuit compare to its individual resistors?
The equivalent resistance of resistors in series is always greater than the largest individual resistance.
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How does the equivalent resistance of a series circuit compare to its individual resistors?
The equivalent resistance of resistors in series is always greater than the largest individual resistance.
How do you calculate the equivalent resistance for a set of resistors connected in parallel?
The inverse of the equivalent resistance is equal to the sum of the inverses of the individual resistances. The relevant equation is $\frac{1}{R_{eq,p}}=\sum_{i}\frac{1}{R_i}$.
What is the internal resistance of a battery?
Internal resistance is the effective resistance within a nonideal battery that causes a voltage drop when current is drawn from it.
What is meant by the 'equivalent resistance' of a circuit?
Equivalent resistance is the single resistance value that could replace a complex combination of resistors while maintaining the same total current and potential difference in the circuit.
Why is a voltmeter connected in parallel?
It is connected in parallel to measure the potential difference between two points without significantly altering the current flowing through the main circuit path.
How must an ammeter be connected to measure the current through a component?
Ammeters must be connected in series with the element in which current is being measured.
What two quantities are measured in a circuit using ammeters and voltmeters?
Ammeters are used to measure current, and voltmeters are used to measure potential difference (voltage).
Why is an ammeter connected in series?
It is connected in series so that the total current being measured must flow through the meter itself, allowing for an accurate measurement.
What is a key characteristic of a circuit with resistive wires?
Resistive wires contribute to the total resistance of the circuit, causing a potential drop along their length and dissipating energy, similar to a resistor.
How does the equivalent resistance of a parallel circuit compare to its individual resistors?
The equivalent resistance of resistors in parallel is always less than the smallest individual resistance.
How is the internal resistance of a nonideal battery modeled in a circuit diagram?
The internal resistance is treated as a resistor connected in series with an ideal battery and the remainder of the circuit.
What defines a series connection in a circuit?
A series connection is one in which any charge passing through one circuit element must proceed through all elements in that connection and has no other path available.
How do you calculate the equivalent resistance for a set of resistors connected in series?
The equivalent resistance of resistors in series is the sum of the individual resistances. The relevant equation is $R_{eq,s}=\sum_{i}R_i$.
You need to measure the current flowing out of a battery and the potential difference across resistor R1. How do you place your meters?
Place an ammeter in series with the battery and place a voltmeter in parallel with resistor R1.
What is the rule for current in a series circuit?
The current in each element in a series connection must be the same.
How must a voltmeter be connected to measure the potential difference across a component?
Voltmeters must be connected in parallel with the element across which potential difference is being measured.