How to i calculate total resistance in a circuit?

Total resistance in a circuit depends on whether the resistors are in series or parallel since this determines which equation is to be used.In series, resistors are essentially lined up next to each other so the total is simple since it is just the sum of the resistors resistance in ohms.e.g. if a circuit has one 10ohm, one 45ohm and one 235ohm resistor in it, all three of which are in series, the total resistance is (10+45+235)ohm = 290ohmsIn parallel each resistor is on its own path for the electricity to follow and as a result the equation is not quite the same, we use the equation: 1/Rtotal = 1/R1 + 1/R+ 1/R..etce.g. a circuit has 3 resistors all in parallel. Their resistances are 25ohm, 5ohm and 100ohm respectivley, what is the total resistance of the circuit?1/Rt = 1/25 + 1/5 + 1/1001/R= 4/100 + 20/100 + 1/1001/R= 25/100100 = 25RtR= 4ohmsoften the answer will be a fraction when calculating a parallel due to the fractions involved in the total calculation however i used a simpler calculation for the example to demonstrate the equation's use

Answered by Matthew K. Physics tutor

16910 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

State one property that all EM waves have in common.


Suppose a student wants calculate the density of the two different objects, a metal cube and a small statue. Describe the methods the student could use to measure the density of the two objects.


Why doesn't the magnetic force change the velocity of a particle?


A 70Kg person jumps out of a plane and deploys a parachute, once the parachute is open the wind resistance acting on the person and the parachute is 900N. What is the direction and magnitude of the persons acceleration.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences