Question

multiple choice question
a parallel circuit is displayed on the right in the image. this is a parallel circuit and not a series circuit because a parallel circuit connects the
negative terminals together, and a series circuit connects the negative to the posi - tive terminals
batteries in a straight line, and a series connects them in a square or rectangle
batteries to produce an alternating current, and a series circuit produces a direct current
negative terminal of one battery to the positive terminal of another battery

Explanation:

In a parallel circuit, the negative terminals of the batteries are connected together (and positive terminals are also connected together). In a series circuit, the negative terminal of one battery is connected to the positive terminal of another battery.

• The first option correctly describes the connection of terminals in parallel (negative - negative) and series (negative - positive) circuits.
• The second option about shape (straight line vs square/rectangle) is not a valid difference between series and parallel circuits.
• The third option is wrong because both series and parallel circuits can have direct current (depending on the power source; dry cells provide direct current).
• The fourth option is the description of a series circuit connection, not parallel.

Answer:

negative terminals together, and a series circuit connects the negative to the positive terminals