Question about resistors in Parallel

In summary, the conversation discusses the need to devise an experiment to demonstrate the decrease in total resistance as additional resistors are added to a parallel circuit. The equation for calculating total resistance in a parallel circuit is also mentioned. The conversation ends with a request for assistance in devising the experiment.
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4evanaday
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Homework Statement


I need to devise an experiment to show that the total resistance decreases as additional resistors are added to a parallel circuit of resistors. All resistances of the resistors are the same.


Homework Equations


R(Total)=1/R(1)+1/R(2)+...+1/R(n)


The Attempt at a Solution


So far I can work it out mathematically say the resistance of the resistors is 20 Ω

For two resistors:
R(Total)=10 Ω
For three:
R(Total)≈6.7

So I can confirm that the total resistance of the circuit is increasing but I'm having problems devising the experiment.

Thanks in advance! :D
 
Physics news on Phys.org

1. What is the purpose of connecting resistors in parallel?

Connecting resistors in parallel allows for the total resistance in a circuit to decrease, resulting in an increase in current flow. This can be useful for balancing the load in a circuit, as well as reducing the overall power dissipation.

2. How do you calculate the total resistance of resistors in parallel?

The total resistance of resistors in parallel can be calculated using the formula Rtotal = 1 / (1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3 + ... + 1/Rn), where R1, R2, R3, etc. are the individual resistances.

3. What happens to the current in a parallel circuit if one resistor fails?

In a parallel circuit, each branch has its own separate path for current to flow. Therefore, if one resistor fails, the current will continue to flow through the other branches. This is in contrast to a series circuit, where a failure in one component would break the circuit and stop the flow of current.

4. Can resistors in parallel have different values?

Yes, resistors in parallel can have different values. In fact, this is often the case in real-world circuits. As long as the resistors are connected in parallel, their individual values do not affect the overall resistance of the circuit.

5. What are some common applications of resistors in parallel?

Resistors in parallel are commonly used in circuits that require different voltage levels for different components. For example, in a household circuit, multiple appliances may be connected in parallel to the same power source, with different resistances to accommodate their specific energy requirements.

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