Question

A 16.0-Ω and a 20.0-Ω resistor are connected in parallel. A difference in potential of 40.0 V is applied to the combination. What is the equivalent resistance of the combination?

1) 36.0 Ω
2) 8.0 Ω
3) 10.0 Ω
4) 80.0 Ω

Answer 1

To find the equivalent resistance of a combination of resistors connected in parallel, use the formula 1/Req = 1/R1 + 1/R2. Applying this formula to the given values, the equivalent resistance of the combination is 8 Ω.

Step-by-step explanation:

To find the equivalent resistance of a combination of resistors connected in parallel, we can use the formula:

1/Req = 1/R1 + 1/R2

Substituting the values from the problem, we get:

1/Req = 1/16Ω + 1/20Ω

1/Req = (20 + 16)/(16 * 20)

1/Req = 36/(16 * 20)

1/Req = 36/320

1/Req = 0.1125

Req = 1/0.1125

Req = 8 Ω

Therefore, the equivalent resistance of the combination is 8 Ω.