Question

what do you call switches in a series circuit

Answer 1

Source of information: https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-function-of-the-switch-in-a-circuit

The function of a switch is to either open or close a conductive path.

If a switch is open, no current flows through that path (ie it is off). If the switch is closed, current is allowed to flow (the path is on).

The symbols show the idea:

Of course switches come in more configurations than these simple off/on types. These are single pole single throw. Other types are:

Single Pole Double Throw …..Double Pole Single Throw …..Double Pole Double Throw

As you might see, the pole is the physical number of switches present. The throw is how many paths can be closed. SPDT is often called a changeover switch.