Connecting batteries in series increases the emf (voltage) applied to a circuit. What advantage might there be to connecting them in parallel?
The correct answer and explanation is :
Advantage of Connecting Batteries in Parallel:
The primary advantage of connecting batteries in parallel is that it increases the total current supply while maintaining the same voltage as that of a single battery.
When batteries are connected in parallel, their voltages remain unchanged, but their capacity (measured in ampere-hours, Ah) and the overall available current are increased. This allows the circuit to run for a longer time, or supply a higher current without the voltage dropping, compared to a single battery.
Explanation:
- Voltage Remains the Same: When batteries are connected in parallel, the voltage across each battery remains identical. This is different from a series connection, where the total voltage is the sum of the voltages of the individual batteries. For example, if two 1.5V batteries are connected in parallel, the total voltage is still 1.5V, just as if one battery were used. This feature makes parallel connections useful when you need to maintain a specific voltage but require more power or run time.
- Increased Current and Capacity: The primary benefit of a parallel connection is that the total current the batteries can supply is the sum of the individual currents. In other words, the batteries share the load. If each battery can provide a current of 2A, two batteries in parallel can supply 4A in total. Additionally, the overall capacity of the battery system (the total amount of charge it can store) is also increased. For instance, if two 1.5V 2000mAh batteries are connected in parallel, the total capacity would be 4000mAh.
- Extended Runtime: Since the capacity of the battery system increases in parallel, the device powered by the batteries can run for a longer period before needing a recharge, compared to using a single battery.
- Reduced Stress on Individual Batteries: In a parallel configuration, the current is shared across multiple batteries, reducing the strain on each one. This can help prevent overheating or damage from excessive discharge currents, enhancing the lifespan of the batteries.
In conclusion, while series connections increase voltage, parallel connections are preferred when a longer runtime and higher current are required, with the voltage staying constant.