Resistance in Series/Parallel.

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In summary, series resistance refers to resistors connected in a single line, while parallel resistance refers to resistors connected side by side. In a series circuit, the total resistance is the sum of individual resistances, while in a parallel circuit, it is calculated using the formula 1/Rt = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3. Adding resistors in series increases total resistance, while adding them in parallel decreases it.
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Mikesgto
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Homework Statement


In the circuit below find the current I3 (in A) when R1 = 12 Ω, R2 = 78 Ω, R3 = 30 Ω, R4= 69 Ω, R5 = 72 Ω, and V = 66 V.

[URL]https://s4.lite.msu.edu/res/msu/mmp/kap20/picts/hkirch2.gif[/URL]


Homework Equations


V=iR
1/Rtotal=(1/R1+1/R2...)


The Attempt at a Solution



I am thoroughly confused how to treat the resistors. What effect does the extra connection between R1 and R2 have on the diagram? It's making it hard to realize what's in series or what's in parallel.
 
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  • #2
I don't see any diagram, so I don't know where to begin to help you.
 

1. What is the difference between series and parallel resistance?

In series resistance, all the resistors are connected in a single line, so the current has to flow through each resistor in sequence. In parallel resistance, the resistors are connected side by side, so the current can flow through each resistor at the same time.

2. How do you calculate total resistance in a series circuit?

In a series circuit, the total resistance is equal to the sum of all the individual resistances. So if you have resistors with values R1, R2, and R3, the total resistance would be R1 + R2 + R3.

3. How do you calculate total resistance in a parallel circuit?

In a parallel circuit, the total resistance is calculated using the formula 1/Rt = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3, where Rt is the total resistance and R1, R2, and R3 are the individual resistances. The reciprocal of this value is the total resistance.

4. What happens to total resistance when resistors are added in series?

In a series circuit, adding more resistors will increase the total resistance. This is because the current has to flow through each resistor in sequence, so the total resistance is the sum of all the individual resistances.

5. What happens to total resistance when resistors are added in parallel?

In a parallel circuit, adding more resistors will decrease the total resistance. This is because the current can flow through each resistor at the same time, so the total resistance is reduced.

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