# Equivalent resistance

1. Oct 17, 2005

### mich_v87

Can two resistors in series be replaced by a single resistor and give an equivalent resistance to the circuit?

If so , how must the single resistance be related to the two in series ?
R=R1+R2 ? ?

2. Oct 18, 2005

### mich_v87

Can two resistors in series be replaced by a single resistor and give an equivalent resistance to the circuit?

My answer is yes they can be replaced by a single equivalent resistance

buthow must the single resistance be related to the two in series ?????

will it be in series !?

3. Oct 18, 2005

### mich_v87

i mean do we use R=R1+R2? is this the answer ?

4. Oct 18, 2005

### El Hombre Invisible

Yes, that's the answer. But I don't understand this: "will it be in series !?" Will it be in series with what? If you're replacing the whole series by one resistor, no.

5. Oct 18, 2005

### big man

yup that's right. $$R_e_q_u=R_1+R_2$$

6. Oct 18, 2005

### vanesch

Staff Emeritus
mich_v87, I've merged your 2 identical questions. Could you please refrain from doing so in the future (except for accidental posting) ?