Finding resistance of single resistor

AI Thread Summary
To find the resistance of the second resistor in a parallel circuit where the total resistance is 6.0 ohms and one resistor is 10 ohms, the equation 1/RT = 1/R1 + 1/R2 is used. The correct calculation reveals that the second resistor's value is 15 ohms. Initially, trial and error was employed, leading to the same conclusion. The discussion emphasizes the importance of using algebraic methods for solving such problems. Ultimately, the solution was confirmed through proper application of the formula.
gungo
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Homework Statement


Two resistors are connected in parallel. The total resistance of the combination is 6.0 ohms. If one of the resistors is 10 ohms, what is the value of the other?

Homework Equations


1/RT= 1/R1+1/R2

The Attempt at a Solution


I got 15 just by doing trial and error, and I'm pretty sure it's the right answer but how would you solve this using the equation?
 
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gungo said:
I got 15 just by doing trial and error, and I'm pretty sure it's the right answer but how would you solve this using the equation?
Via algebra, of course. What have you tried?
 
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gneill said:
Via algebra, of course. What have you tried?
Whoops I forgot about using algebra. I got it, thanks!
 

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