ELECTRIC CIRCUIT

Objectives:
1. Define an electric circuit.
2. Describe the parts and functions of an electric circuit.
3. Explain the different conditions and connections of electric circuit.

Electric Circuit is an arrangement of physical components that utilize voltage,

current, and resistance.

Block Diagram

Pictorial Diagram Schematic Diagram

A pictorial diagram shows a picture or sketch of the various components of a

specific electric circuit and the wiring between its components. It provides the means
to readily identify the components of a circuit, even if you are not familiar with their
physical appearance. This type of diagram shows the various components without
regard to their physical location, how the wiring is marked, or how the wiring is
routed. It does, however, show you the sequence in which the components are
connected.

A schematic diagram is a representation of graphic symbols (specifically

schematic symbols) rather than realistic or actual pictures. This diagram usually
omits all details that are not relevant to the electrical connections of the components.
It is intended to convey, and may add unrealistic elements that aid comprehension
and the symbolic elements are arranged in a manner easily understood by the user.
The layout of the symbols may not resemble the layout in the physical circuit.

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 ELECTRIC CIRCUIT

A block diagram also called system approach shows complete circuits by

breaking them down into smaller sections or blocks that are connected by lines
indicating the relationships of the blocks. They are commonly used for higher level,
less detailed descriptions that are intended to clarify overall concepts without
concern for the little details. Block diagram is a method of explaining complex circuits
in a simple manner.

Diagrams of a Simple Electric Circuit

Parts of Electric Circuit

1. Source. The source provides electric power to the circuit.

2. Load, The load is an electrical devices or an electronic component that
consumes electricity.
3. Path/ Conductor. The path is a conductive material that connects the
components of an electric circuit.
4. Control. The control is a device or component that opens or closes a circuit either
mechanically or electrically.
5. Protective Device. The protective device is commonly placed in the current path
and is used to create an open circuit when current exceeds due to malfunction or
unwanted condition.

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 ELECTRIC CIRCUIT

Conditions of Electric Circuit

1. Closed Circuit. A circuit with a complete flow of current.

2. Open Circuit. A circuit without a complete flow of current.
3. Short Circuit. A circuit that produces intense heat due to malfunction or unwanted
condition. It usually happens when the negative and positive or hot wire and cold
wire come into contact with each other without passing any load.
4. Overloaded Circuit. A circuit that needs more current than the capacity of the
source. WATTS / VOLTS = AMPS. A 100 watt bulb on a 120 volt circuit: 100watts /120volts =
.833 amps, if on a 240 volt circuit: 100w/240v = .416 amps). “It’s not because you can means
you should”.
5. Grounded Chassis Circuit. A circuit where in un-insulated conductor touches the
metal part of an appliance that causes voltage drain.

Connections of Electric Circuit

1. Series Connection. A circuit where components are arranged end to end in a

single electric path. In this circuit, if one or more components are broken, the
whole circuit will not work.

2. Parallel Connection. A circuit with two or more electric paths. In this circuit, if one
or more components are broken, the unbroken components will still work.

3. Series-Parallel Connection. A circuit with loads connected in series and parallel

connection.

EXERCISE: Name the condition of the following diagrams below.

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 ELECTRIC CIRCUIT

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