How to find the current and equivalent resistance in a parallel circuit

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the equivalent resistance and current in a parallel circuit consisting of three 16 ohm resistors connected to a 34 V battery. The correct formula for equivalent resistance is established as 1/R_total = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3, leading to an equivalent resistance of 5.33 ohms. Subsequently, using Ohm's Law (I = V/R), the current delivered by the battery is calculated to be 6.37 amps. The importance of correctly applying the inverse of the total resistance is emphasized for accurate results.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Ohm's Law (I = V/R)
  • Knowledge of parallel resistor calculations (1/R_total = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3)
  • Familiarity with basic circuit components (resistors, voltage sources)
  • Ability to perform arithmetic operations with fractions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the concept of equivalent resistance in series and parallel circuits
  • Learn how to apply Kirchhoff's laws in circuit analysis
  • Explore the effects of varying resistor values on total current in a circuit
  • Investigate practical applications of parallel circuits in real-world electronics
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electrical engineering, hobbyists building circuits, and educators teaching basic electronics principles.

itsmarasilly
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Homework Statement



Three 16 ohm resistors are connected in parallel and placed across a 34 V battery.
(a) What is the equivalent resistance of the parallel circuit?
(b) What is the current delivered by the battery?

Homework Equations



(a) (1/equivalent resistance) = 1/R1+1/R2+1/R3+...
(b) I=V/R

The Attempt at a Solution



(a) (1/16)+(1/16)+(1/16) = (3/16)
equivalent resistance = (3/16)
(b) (34 V / 48 ohm) = .7917 amps
 
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For resistors in parallel we have that:

<br /> 1/R_{total} = 1/R_1+1/R_2+1/R_3 + \ldots,<br />

so you need to take the inverse of the result you gave.

For (b), use the answer from (a) and the expression you correctly wrote: I = V/R.
 
Compare your a) relevant equation to your a) solution attempt. There is something very simple missing.

b) You must find the correct resistance in part a) to solve.

Edit- Niles beat me
 

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