Circuits: Draw Equivalent Resistance

[Saladsamurai]

Homework Statement

Man, I stink at circuits. I have to simplify the 1st circuit in the image below to an equivalent resistance. I am almost there, but I am unsure of how to relate the remaining 3 resistances. In the drawing, a subscript R_i||j denotes the equivalent resistance of the two parallel resistors i and j; similarly, R_i+j is the equivalent resistance of the two series resistors i and j.

Now, I am not sure how to relate $R_1,\,R_{(3||4)+5},\,R_2$ and I think my confusion lies in the fact that I do not know what is going on with the current in this last circuit. Can someone help me out with that?

 

[Delphi51]

You have it pretty well finished! Just combine the R(3||4)+5 with the R2 in parallel. That result is in series with R1.

 

[Saladsamurai]

You have it pretty well finished! Just combine the R(3||4)+5 with the R2 in parallel. That result is in series with R1.

OK! Now, this is because after the current leaves R1, it splits among R2 and R(3||4)+5 so we combine them in parallel. Right?

Thanks again Delphi!

 

[gneill]

They combine in parallel because they *are* in parallel! Look at how their leads connect.

 

[Saladsamurai]

They combine in parallel because they *are* in parallel! Look at how their leads connect.

Hi gneill! I don't understand your reply!

 

[Delphi51]

I think you are both saying the same thing! Parallel means both ends of the resistors are connected together AND that the current splits between them.