In a parallel circuit, how does the voltage across each branch behave as more branches are added?

In a parallel circuit, how does the voltage across each branch behave as more branches are added?

• A. It increases.
• B. It decreases.
• C. It depends on branch resistance.
• D. It remains equal to the source voltage.

Answer: (D)

In a parallel circuit, all branches are connected across the same two nodes, so each branch experiences the same potential difference as the source. Adding more branches increases the total current drawn because there are more paths for current, and it lowers the overall equivalent resistance. But the voltage across each individual branch stays the same as the source voltage, assuming an ideal source that can maintain its voltage under load. The only caveat is that a non-ideal source with internal resistance can cause a small voltage drop under heavier load. Thus, the voltage across each branch remains equal to the source voltage.

In a parallel circuit, all branches are connected across the same two nodes, so each branch experiences the same potential difference as the source. Adding more branches increases the total current drawn because there are more paths for current, and it lowers the overall equivalent resistance. But the voltage across each individual branch stays the same as the source voltage, assuming an ideal source that can maintain its voltage under load. The only caveat is that a non-ideal source with internal resistance can cause a small voltage drop under heavier load. Thus, the voltage across each branch remains equal to the source voltage.