Find Equiv. Resistance of Circuit: R1, R2, R3, R4

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on finding the equivalent resistance of a complex circuit involving resistors R1, R2, R3, and R4. Initially, there is confusion about the arrangement of the resistors, particularly regarding their series and parallel connections. After clarification, it is concluded that R1 and R2 are in parallel with R3 and R4, and the two parallel groups are in series with each other. The final understanding emphasizes the need to correctly identify the connections to solve for the equivalent resistance. The participants express appreciation for the guidance received in resolving the circuit's configuration.
Atlos
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Homework Statement


I'm just trying to find the equivalent resistance of this:
http://sogacity.com/images/circuit.png


Homework Equations


Resistors in series add and resistors in parallel inversely add.


The Attempt at a Solution


I'm not even sure how to approach this. I guess I can't get my head around how it is set up. R1 and R2 are in series, but being connected to R3 and R4 in multiple places is what's confusing me. If somebody could help me create an equation for the equivalent resistance of all of that I would be thankful.
 
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Follow the path from the power source around the outside of the drawing. No resistors.
 
Do you mean like this?

http://sogacity.com/images/circuit2.png

So would R1 and R2 be in parallel with R3 and R4? Like (R1 + R2)||(R3 + R4)?
 
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Because there is a continuous path around the resistors, they are shorted out and have no effect. So, the resistance is zero.
 
Ah I understand it now, not sure how I missed that. Thanks!
 
Uggh, I knew it couldn't be that easy! I drew a wire where there shouldn't have been one. This is the real circuit:

http://sogacity.com/images/circuit3.png

Anyways, I still have no idea how to approach this problem. Would it be (R1||R4)+(R2||R3) since R1 and R2 seem to be in series and R1R4 and R2R3 look to be in parallel?
 
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It looks like they touch at the centre point.

So, yes, the top two are in parallel and the bottom two are in parallel and then the two parallel parts are in series.

It might look more familiar like this:

[PLAIN]http://dl.dropbox.com/u/4222062/series%20parallel.PNG
 
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Awesome, thanks a lot.
 

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