Simple Circuits
SIMPLE CIRCUIT
BATTERY +
Supplies the 5 V electrical energy that powers the circuit. Current begins here and flows through each component until it reaches ground.
RESISTOR
Limits current flow to a safe value for the LED. It creates a small voltage drop and protects components from excessive current. This resistor has a value of 1,000 ohms
GROUND (GND)
Provides the return path back to the power source, completing the circuit. Without ground, current cannot flow.
SWITCH
Opens and closes the circuit. When the switch is open, the path is broken and no current flows. When closed, it completes the circuit and allows current to reach the LED.
LED
Converts electrical energy into light. Current can flow only one direction through it—from the anode(+) to the cathode(-) —so it lights only when connected correctly.
SIMPLE CIRCUIT
When the sliding switch is closed, electrical energy flows:
B+ → Switch → Resistor → LED → GND
The resistor drops part of the voltage, the LED uses the remaining voltage to emit light, and the current returns to ground—demonstrating a complete and controlled electrical loop.