Parallel Circuit

In a parallel circuit:

• The potential difference across each branch is the same.
• The total current splits between branches: $I_{\text{total}} = I_1 + I_2 + ...$
• The combined resistance is less than the smallest individual resistance:

$\frac{1}{R_{\text{total}}} = \frac{1}{R_1} + \frac{1}{R_2} + ...$

If one branch breaks, current continues through the other branches. Household circuits use parallel wiring so each appliance receives the full mains voltage independently.