In series The charged particles move in only one path so the current i.e. charge/time will be same in all the appliances connected The ammeter which is used to measure current is connected in series The resistance of ammeter is zero ideally to avoid any potential drop The total current should pass through the fuse which is used to protect the appliances, as the current exceeds the limit of fuse, it gets heated and melts. The potential drops as the current passes through the appliances. In parallel The charged particles have different paths to pass, so the total current divides in all the paths All the appliances are connected to the same potential terminals, so the potential difference is same across all the appliances. Voltmeter which is used to measure potential difference is connected in parallel The resistance of voltmeter is infinite ideally to avoid any current through it.