Calculating Resistivity and Resistance: Solving for Unknowns

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the overall resistance of two wires in parallel, where one wire has a length of 2b and the other has a length of b. The formula R = pL/A is referenced to determine resistance, with confusion arising about the interpretation of length (L) in the context of the problem. Participants express that the problem should explicitly state the presence of two resistances in parallel for clarity. The conclusion emphasizes the need for clearer problem statements in physics homework to avoid misunderstandings.
Jaymo3141
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Homework Statement





Homework Equations


R=pL/A


The Attempt at a Solution



The answer is C and I don't know why. If R = pL/A then isn't L=b between X and Y?
 

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There are 2 wires running from X to Y. These wires are in parallel. One is of length 2b, and the other is of length b. You need to find the overall resistance of these two resistors in parallel.

I don't think that this problem is stated very well. I think it should state outright that there are two resistances in parallel.
 
that makes sense. thank you
 

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