Circuit Troubleshooting: Identify Resistors in Parallel & Series

[negatifzeo]

[SOLVED] Trouble with Circuits

I've got a certain problem that I feel I know how to solve, but I am having trouble deciding which resistors are in parallel and which are in series. Can anyone please tell me which resistors on this diagram are in parallel and which are in series, and how to definitively tell?

 

[negatifzeo]

Posted in wrong forum, sorry.

 

[charng]

I can provide some guidance on how to identify resistors in parallel and series in a circuit. First, let's define what it means for resistors to be in parallel and series.

Resistors in parallel are connected side by side, with each end of one resistor connected to the same end of another resistor. This results in the same voltage being applied across each resistor. In contrast, resistors in series are connected end to end, with the current flowing through one resistor before reaching the next one. This results in the same current flowing through each resistor.

Now, to identify resistors in parallel and series, you can start by looking at the connections between the resistors. If two resistors have the same two points connected, they are in parallel. On the other hand, if two resistors have only one point connected, they are in series.

In your diagram, it appears that resistors R1 and R2 are in parallel, as well as resistors R3 and R4. This is because each of these pairs of resistors have the same two points connected. Resistors R2 and R3 are in series, as they only have one point connected. Finally, resistors R1 and R4 are not connected to each other at all, so they are neither in parallel nor in series.

To verify this, you can also use Ohm's Law, which states that the total resistance in a series circuit is equal to the sum of the individual resistances, while the total resistance in a parallel circuit is equal to the reciprocal of the sum of the reciprocals of the individual resistances. By calculating the total resistance in each section of the circuit, you can confirm whether the resistors are in parallel or series.

I hope this helps you troubleshoot your circuit and solve your problem. Remember to always double check your connections and use Ohm's Law to confirm your findings. Good luck!