Circuits Wired Partially in Series and Partially in Parallel

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on calculating the equivalent resistance of circuits that are partially wired in series and partially in parallel. The first circuit involves resistors R1 (3 ohms) and R2 (6 ohms), with participants struggling to find the correct configuration. The second circuit includes R1 (3 ohms), R2 (9 ohms), and R3 (12 ohms), with guidance provided on collapsing series resistors before combining them with parallel resistors. Users share techniques for visualizing the circuits to better understand the series and parallel relationships. Ultimately, the participants successfully apply these methods to solve both circuit problems.
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R1 = 3 ohms; R2 = 6 ohms

What is the equivalent resistance between A & B?

I just can't find the right answer with this one.

I don't know if I'm placing the wrong ones in parallel. I've tried two different set ups. How exactly does this type of wiring set up work?




This one is giving me the same problem:
R1 = 3 ohms; R2 = 9 ohms ; R3 = 12 ohms
http://www.webassign.net/userimages/barrett.3@osu/CJ6-20-061-small.jpg
 
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First, collapse the three series resistors on the right into a single resistor, (3 + 6 + R2) ohms. Next, combine that resistor in parallel with the 8 ohm resistor. Next, combine that in series with the 4 ohm resistor... etc.

- Warren
 
Break it up into a linear circuit:

10----------------------------B
A-R1-- | |
| 8-----| |
4------- |
6---R2----3---|

I apologize for it being so bootleg, but does this help?

EDIT: Apparently it collapsed all the empty space, so quote my post to see what it's really supposed to look like
 
Warren,
Thanks for the help on the first circuit. I understand the technique now.

Not sure if I understand how to apply it to the 2nd but I'm trying right now.
 
OS- thanks for the help but I got it.
The spacing was still messed up in the qoute though :smile:

Is it the same approach for the 2nd circuit?
 
For the second:

Combine R3 and the 9 ohm. Then that's in parallel with the 6 ohm. That, R1, and R2 are in series, and that's in parallel with the 20 ohm
 
OK, I succeeded at # 2 aswell
thanks for allt he help
 
FOr future reference, even though you can't see my diagram very well, it's useful to take point b, and "rotate" it directly horizontal with point a. Then redraw the circuit, and what's in series and what's parallel should be more obvious
 

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