What is the resistance between two resistors?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on determining the resistance between two 10Ω resistors configured in a circuit. Participants clarify that the resistors are in parallel, leading to a combined resistance of 5Ω using the formula 1/R_total = 1/R1 + 1/R2. The conversation emphasizes the importance of recognizing circuit topology and understanding the difference between series and parallel arrangements. Ultimately, the correct approach involves treating the parallel resistors as a single equivalent resistor in series with another known resistor.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Ohm's Law (R=V/I)
  • Knowledge of series and parallel resistor configurations
  • Familiarity with calculating equivalent resistance
  • Ability to interpret circuit diagrams
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of series and parallel circuits in depth
  • Learn how to calculate equivalent resistance for complex circuits
  • Explore circuit topology and its impact on electrical flow
  • Practice problems involving multiple resistors in various configurations
USEFUL FOR

Students studying electrical engineering, educators teaching circuit theory, and anyone seeking to improve their understanding of resistor configurations and circuit analysis.

  • #31
There are two problems that students frequently manifest dealing with these elementary (in this case very elementary) circuit problems. One is they cannot recognise a topology. No longer recognise the same circuit when it is redrawn in a slightly different looking way. What can I say? - if this were an underground railway system how many ways can you go from P to Q? What do you have to go through?

(Students are lucky they rarely meet nonplanar circuits!)

The other point is that they are too formulaic. They have been intimidated and made tense and rigid by formulae. Instead think physically! When you have things in parallel I recommend don't think of resistances, think of conductances. You have a voltage across two resistors, i.e. mediocre conductors, in parallel, in this case of equal conductance. If one for a given voltage across it will carry a certain current, how much current will the other with the same conductance and the same voltage across it carry?

After which what will be the total current?...

Not really a 30+ post problem.

Similar thinking applies in the cases of capacitance.
 
Last edited:

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