How do you calculate the total resistance of two resistors, R1 and R2, when they are in series and when they are in parallel?

When resistors are in series you may add up their resistances to find the total resistance, RTotal= R1 + R2. However, when resistors are in parallel, it gets a little more complicated. You must use the equation RTotal=1/((1/R1)+(1/R2)).

JM
Answered by Jamie M. Physics tutor

14619 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Compare the medical uses of ultrasound and X-rays. Your answer should include the risks, if any, and precautions, if any, associated with the use of ultrasound and X-rays. [6 marks]


A car of mass 1000 kg is travelling at 20 (m/s). The car crashes into a tree, and comes to a complete halt in 0.05s. Calculate the force acting on the car during the collision.


What is the mass of an object travelling at 15 m/s with a kinetic energy of 100 J?


Can you explain the different ways heat can travel?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning