Calculating Total Resistance in a Series-Parallel Circuit

In summary, the circuit contains a series connection of two 1 ohm resistors and a parallel connection of two 2 ohm resistors. To calculate the total resistance, we can use the equation 1/RT = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3... for parallel connections and RT = R1 + R2 + R3... for series connections. By applying these equations, we can determine that the total resistance of the circuit is 2.5 ohms.
  • #1
Theman123
8
0

Homework Statement



I am asked to calculate the total resistance of this circuit


2dwck6h.jpg

Homework Equations


1/rt =1/r1+1/r2+1/r3...etc - parallel
RT=r1+r2+r3...etc - series

The Attempt at a Solution


1/rt = 1/2 +1/2 +1/1
rt=1/2
then i tried adding 2 to it (from the top two resistors added together in series i think...)
rt=2.5
 
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  • #2
I can't follow your post but let's start from the right and with some basics.

If the same current flows through two resistors, they are in series.

If the same voltage is across two resistors, they are in parallel.

Current splits when it flows into a node.

Now, at the right hand side, we have a a 1 ohm and 1 ohm resistor. Does the same current flow through them?

Yes, meaning they are in series. Now, this 2 ohm resistor and the 2 ohm resistor. There is a current coming in from the left hand branch, which splits between the 2 ohm and 2 ohm resistor, meaning they are not in series. Add these two in parallel.

Try and finish the rest of the question yourself, using these basics. If you've any questions ask.
 

Related to Calculating Total Resistance in a Series-Parallel Circuit

1. What is total resistance?

Total resistance is the overall resistance to electric current in a circuit. It is measured in ohms and is the combined effect of all the resistances in a circuit.

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. This can be calculated by using the formula Rtotal = R1 + R2 + R3 + ... + Rn, where R represents resistance in ohms.

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

In a parallel circuit, the total resistance is less than the smallest individual resistance. This can be calculated using the formula 1/Rtotal = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3 + ... + 1/Rn. Then, to find the total resistance, take the reciprocal of the sum of the reciprocals.

4. Can total resistance ever be negative?

No, total resistance is always a positive value. Resistance is a measure of how much a material opposes the flow of electricity, and it cannot have a negative value.

5. How does temperature affect total resistance?

In general, as the temperature of a material increases, its resistance also increases. This is because the increased temperature causes the atoms in the material to vibrate more, making it harder for the electrons to pass through. However, this relationship can vary depending on the material and its properties.

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