Which type of wiring configuration is used for multiple fixtures from one switch?

The correct choice for wiring multiple fixtures from one switch is series wiring. In a series wiring configuration, all fixtures are connected along a single path. This means that current flows through each fixture sequentially before returning to the power source. In practical terms, when the switch is activated, all fixtures will turn on or off together, functioning based on the state of the switch.

This approach is often seen in basic lighting circuits where you want all lights to function in unison, and if one light fails or is removed, the entire circuit is interrupted—this is a defining characteristic of series circuits. Directly linking multiple fixtures to a single switch simplifies the installation of lighting in certain scenarios.

Conversely, parallel wiring, which is typically used for more complex installations, allows each fixture to operate independently of the others. In a parallel circuit, each light has its own direct connection to the power supply, so the failure of one fixture does not affect the operation of others. Random wiring, though not a standard term in electrical practice, implies a lack of methodical configuration and can lead to poor performance or safety issues. Star wiring, often used in specific applications, particularly in star network topologies, does not fit the context of basic residential lighting from a single