Four Lamps Connected in Parallel Circuit: What Happens When One Burns Out?

What will happen to the other lamps when one of the lamps burns out in a circuit where four lamps are connected in parallel? In a parallel circuit, each lamp has its own independent path to the power source, so when one lamp burns out, the other lamps will continue to function normally. The voltage across each branch in a parallel circuit is the same, and the total current flow is equal to the sum of the individual branch currents. When a lamp burns out, the resistance of that branch increases, resulting in a decrease in the total current flow. However, the current continues to flow through the other branches, allowing the remaining lamps to operate normally.

Understanding Parallel Circuits:

Parallel circuits are a type of electrical circuit where multiple components are connected in such a way that the current has multiple paths to flow. In a parallel circuit, each component is connected across the same voltage source, ensuring that the voltage across each component is the same.

Effect of Lamp Burnout:

When one lamp burns out in a parallel circuit, the resistance of that particular branch increases, causing a decrease in the total current flowing through the circuit. However, since the other lamps are still connected in parallel, they maintain their own individual paths to the power source and continue to receive the same voltage.

Operation of Other Lamps:

Because of the independent pathways in a parallel circuit, the other lamps connected in parallel will not be affected by the burned-out lamp. The remaining lamps will continue to operate normally as long as the circuit remains connected.

Conclusion:

In summary, when one lamp burns out in a parallel circuit of four lamps, the other lamps will not be affected and will continue to function as usual. This is due to the independent paths each lamp has in a parallel circuit, ensuring that the failure of one component does not disrupt the operation of others.

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