What is the Resistance Between A and B in a Circuit?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around determining the resistance between points A and B in a circuit, focusing on the configuration of resistors and their connections. The subject area is electrical circuits, particularly the concepts of series and parallel resistor arrangements.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore whether the resistors are in series or parallel and question the implications of the circuit's layout. There are attempts to clarify the role of loops in the circuit and how they affect current flow.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided guidance on the importance of understanding the definitions of series and parallel connections, suggesting that redrawing the circuit may help clarify the situation. Multiple interpretations of the circuit configuration are being explored, particularly regarding the presence of loops.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of the problem being a common exercise, indicating a potential focus on conceptual understanding rather than just finding a numerical answer. Participants express uncertainty about the circuit's configuration and its implications for current flow.

Kara386
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Homework Statement


In the circuit attached below, what's the resistance between A and B?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I'm finding it difficult to interpret this thing. Are resistors 1 and 2 in series or parallel? What does the loop above 1 and 2 actually do, in terms of how much current would flow round it? It has no components in it. I really have no idea what's going on in the diagram.

I'm guessing it involves Kirchhoff's current and voltage laws but I'm struggling to actually apply those here. Thanks for any help!
 

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This exact problem has shown up here several times. You need to just pay attention to the definitions of serial and parallel connections and redraw the circuit. That is that POINT of the exercise, actually, more than the answer. It's to force you to pay close attention to the definitions.
 
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phinds said:
This exact problem has shown up here several times. You need to just pay attention to the definitions of serial and parallel connections and redraw the circuit. That is that POINT of the exercise, actually, more than the answer. It's to force you to pay close attention to the definitions.
Are these just all in parallel? If I removed either of those loops I'd say what was left was three resistors in parallel, but what happens when there are two loops? Still just in parallel?
 
Kara386 said:
Are these just all in parallel? If I removed either of those loops I'd say what was left was three resistors in parallel, but what happens when there are two loops? Still just in parallel?
Yes, it's rather trivial to note that each of the resistors has one end hooked to the input and one to the output so they are obviously in parallel. You'll need to define what you mean by "two loops" to get an answer to that, but if you draw the diagram properly it will be obvious in any case.
 
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phinds said:
Yes, it's rather trivial to note that each of the resistors has one end hooked to the input and one to the output so they are obviously in parallel. You'll need to define what you mean by "two loops" to get an answer to that, but if you draw the diagram properly it will be obvious in any case.
I see it, thank you! :)
 

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