GCSE Combined Science (AQA)

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Cells in Series

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Electricity Series and parallel circuits

Cells in Series

3:20 Series Circuits
Spec 4.2.2
Previous Resistance in Series Next Alternating & Direct Potential Differences
  • A battery consists of multiple cells connected in series to achieve a higher potential difference than a single cell.
  • The circuit symbol for a battery shows multiple cells connected in series, positive to negative, sometimes represented with a dotted line and a notch at the positive end.
  • The total potential difference of a battery is the sum of the potential differences of the individual cells.
  • If cells are connected with opposite polarity, their potential difference is subtracted from the total.
  • Example: Cells of 6 volts, 3 volts (reversed), and 12 volts result in a total potential difference of 15 volts (6 - 3 + 12).
  • In a circuit with four cells and a lamp, the potential difference and current direction are determined by the total potential differences in both clockwise and anti-clockwise directions.
  • Example: Clockwise potential difference of 16 volts and anti-clockwise of 14 volts results in a net potential difference of 2 volts across the lamp, with current flowing in the clockwise direction.

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