Resistance in Parallel Equation

[CheesyPeeps]

The formula to find the total resistance in a parallel circuit is 1/R=1/R1+1/R2+1/R3, but wouldn't it be easier to use R=1/(1/R1+1/R2+1/R3)? I've only ever seen the equation written like that once before, and I'm wondering if there's a reason as to why it's never really used?

 

[BvU]

What's easier to use depends on what you have and where you want to go.
The 1/R expression is easier to understand and to remember:

Voltage is the same for all R
Total current = Voltage / Total resistance
Total current = Sum of individual currents = Sum ( Voltage / Individual resistance i )​

Divide by Voltage and you get the 1/R = Sum (1/R_i )

 

[Dale]

I'm wondering if there's a reason as to why it's never really used?

It is USED plenty. Students are expected to be able to divide easily.

Similarly, Newton's 2nd law is almost always written F=ma, even though students are expected to recognize and use the equivalent a=F/m and m=F/a.

 

[CheesyPeeps]

Thanks! I suppose it does make sense that we don't write it that way.

 

[CWatters]

What others said. The two equations are mathematically the same. If anything the second form of the equation is used more frequently.