When batteries are connected in series, the voltages of the individual batteries add up, resulting in a higher overall voltage. For example, if two 6-volt batteries are connected in series, the total voltage would be 12 volts. Effects of Series Connections on Current In a series connection, the current remains constant throughout the batteries.
First we will consider connecting batteries in series for greater voltage: We know that the current is equal at all points in a series circuit, so whatever amount of current there is in any one of the series-connected batteries must be the same for all the others as well.
If we want to have some terminal voltage other than these standard ones, then series or parallel combination of the batteries should be done. One more reason for connecting the batteries in series or parallel is to increase the terminal voltage and current sourcing capacity respectively. Connection diagram : Figure 1.
Battery A has a voltage of 6 volts and a current of 2 amps, while Battery B also has a voltage of 6 volts and a current of 2 amps. When connected in series, the total voltage would be 12 volts, and the total current would remain at 2 amps. Advantages and Disadvantages of Series Connections
The current is the same as for one battery because the same current (I) flows through all the series combination. Since battery capacity (C) in amp-hours relates to the current (I) in amperes, and which is constant in a series circuit, the total amp-hour (Ah) rating of the series combination is the same as for one single battery.
Consider the example of two batteries connected in parallel: Battery A has a voltage of 6 volts and a current of 2 amps, while Battery B has a voltage of 6 volts and a current of 3 amps. When connected in parallel, the total voltage remains at 6 volts, but the total current increases to 5 amps. Advantages and Disadvantages of Parallel Connections