What is Open Circuit?
An open circuit is an electric circuit in which there is no current flow. In order for current to flow in a circuit, it must find a continuous flow, known as a “closed circuit.” If there is a break in the circuit, the circuit is open, and current cannot pass.
In an open circuit, the connection between the terminals is broken. Consequently, the circuit’s continuity is interrupted. Despite the fact that there is no current flow, there is a voltage drop between two locations in a circuit.
In an open circuit, therefore, the current passing through the circuit is 0 and voltage is present.
Power is now equals to V x I, and the current is zero as well.
Consequently, power is equal to zero and no power is lost from an open circuit.
What causes a circuit to be Open?
a). Component Failure:
Component failure happens when one or more components in a circuit fail or get damaged.
For example: A circuit with three resistors R1, R2, and R3. R2 is burned for a lot of reasons. As a result of the presence of an open circuit, the circuit is no longer complete.
b). Interruption in Conductor:
A broken conductor can arise for various reasons. Conductors can break as a result of ageing or deterioration. It is possible for a conductor to break on purpose or by accident. There are several causes for this, all of which can be identified.
c). Manual Interference:
By manually opening a circuit breaker for maintenance, an open circuit is created.
Open Circuit Resistance:
An open circuit occurs when the two terminals or points are externally separated, which is directly comparable to R= ∞. This indicates that no current can flow between the terminals regardless of the voltage difference.
Ohm’s law explains how a resistor functions. The current is proportional to the resistance voltage. The ohm’s law formula is:
V=IR
R = V/I
​In an open circuit,
the current is zero (I = 0)
R = V/0
then
R = ∞
In an open circuit, the resistance is hence infinite for any voltage value.
