Question

Assume that r1 = 1.40 ohm, r2 = 2.80 ohm, r3 = 4.90 ohm, r4 = 1.00 ohm, r5 = 14.0 ohm, v = 7.00 v and i = 2.00 a. What is the total resistance in the circuit?

1) 10.10 ohm
2) 12.10 ohm
3) 15.10 ohm
4) 17.10 ohm

Answer 1

Total resistance in a series circuit is the sum of all resistances, while in a parallel circuit, the formula for combined resistance results in a smaller resistance than the smallest individual resistor.

Step-by-step explanation:

The total resistance of a circuit can vary depending on whether the resistors are connected in series or parallel. When resistors are connected in series, the total resistance is the sum of all individual resistances. For instance, a circuit containing three resistors in series with resistances of 0.5 Ω, 7.5 Ω, and 11 Ω will have a total resistance of 19 Ω (0.5 + 7.5 + 11).

Conversely, when calculating the total resistance for resistors in parallel, such as a circuit with two resistors valued at 15 Ω and 7 Ω, the formula 1/Rtotal = 1/R1 + 1/R2 is used, which results in a total resistance that is less than that of the smallest individual resistor.