Final answer:
The total resistance of a parallel circuit is indeed less than the smallest resistance in the circuit because each resistor provides an additional path for current, reducing the overall resistance.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that the total resistance of a parallel circuit is less than the smallest resistance in the circuit is true. When resistors are connected in parallel, each resistor provides an additional path for the current to flow, effectively increasing the overall current capacity of the circuit. As more paths are available for the current, the circuit does not have to work as hard to push the current through, resulting in a lower total resistance. This can be calculated using the formula for parallel resistors, which illustrates that the equivalent resistance (Rp) is always less than the smallest component resistance in the circuit.