SQA National 5 Physics Practice Exam

In a parallel circuit, each branch operates independently, which allows the total current to be divided among the branches. The total current flowing into the parallel circuit is the sum of the currents flowing through each individual branch. This means that the current is distributed across the different pathways, and each branch can have a different current depending on its resistance.

Since the branches are all connected to the same voltage source, the difference in voltage across each branch remains constant. According to Ohm's law, which states that voltage equals current multiplied by resistance (V = IR), the current in each branch will vary based on its specific resistance. Adding the currents from all branches together will yield the total current entering the parallel configuration.

This behavior illustrates one of the fundamental principles of parallel circuits: while the voltage remains constant across branches, the currents can vary, and ultimately, the total current is equal to the sum of the individual branch currents.