Conceptual Question about Equivalent Resistance

[jumbogala]

Homework Statement

I don't quite understand how to read circuit diagrams, so I'm not sure how to find the equivalent resistance in some cases.

What is the equivalent resistance of circuits A and B?

I drew a picture to help me explain what I'm talking about:

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I know circuit B is definitely in parallel, so the equivalent resistance is 1/R = 1/R1 + 1/R2.

But is circuit A in parallel, too? I think it is but I'm not 100 % sure.

 

[Shooting Star]

What is the equivalent resistance of circuits A and B?

I drew a picture to help me explain what I'm talking about:

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I know circuit B is definitely in parallel, so the equivalent resistance is 1/R = 1/R1 + 1/R2.

But is circuit A in parallel, too? I think it is but I'm not 100 % sure.

You are correct -- the two circuits are absolutely equivalent. It does not matter how you draw the resistance R2 as long as it is there somewhere between the two points where the wires from R2 join the wire containing R1.

"Parallel" does not mean that the resistances have to be literally parallel.