Equivalent resistance between points a and b in a circuit

[tmr0116]

Homework Statement

Find the equivalent resistance between points a and b in the figure

Homework Equations

1/Req = 1/R1+1/R2... for parallel
Req= R1+R2... for series

The Attempt at a Solution

12.63 ohms

 

[xcvxcvvc]

Homework Statement

Find the equivalent resistance between points a and b in the figure

Homework Equations

1/Req = 1/R1+1/R2... for parallel
Req= R1+R2... for series

The Attempt at a Solution

12.63 ohms

If you show your work, we can spot your errors and guide you. Or are you just asking if your answer is right?

 

[tmr0116]

I have that the 4 and 2 ohm resistor are in series and add to be 6 ohms equivalent resistor. The 6 ohm resistor and the 3 ohm resistor are parallel and 1/6+1/3=1/2 or 2 ohms equivalent. I don't know what to do next though. Are the 1, 2, and 10 ohm resistors in series?

 

[vela]

Are the 1, 2, and 10 ohm resistors in series?

No. If two elements are in series, all the current that goes through one has to go through the other. A current flowing through the 10-ohm resistor can go through the 9-ohm resistor or the 2-ohm resistor, so the 10-ohm resistor and the 2-ohm resistor are not in series. In contrast, all of the current in the 2-ohm resistor must also go through the 1-ohm resistor, so those resistors are in series.

 

[zgozvrm]

Try re-drawing the circuit with your new values ... it may become clearer that way. Sometimes, it helps to re-draw the circuit vertically: in your case with "a" at the top of the diagram and "b" at the bottom.