What is the rule for combining resistors in series and parallel circuits( combination circuits)?
In series, you add the values of the individual resistors. In a parallel circuit of R1, R2, R3..., the equivalent resistance R is given by
1/R = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3 + ...
Use as meny terms as there are resistors.
The rule for combining resistors in series and parallel circuits is based on Ohm's Law and the concept of equivalent resistance.
In a series circuit, resistors are connected end-to-end, so the total resistance (Rt) is obtained by simply summing up the individual resistances (R1, R2, R3, and so on) of the resistors:
Rt = R1 + R2 + R3 + ...
In a parallel circuit, resistors are connected side-by-side, so the total resistance is inversely proportional to the sum of the reciprocals of the individual resistances. This can be calculated using the following formula:
1/Rt = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3 + ...
To combine resistors in a combination circuit (a circuit with both series and parallel elements), you can follow these steps:
1. Identify the series resistors: These are the resistors connected in a single line, with no other branching paths. Add up their resistances to find the total resistance in the series section.
2. Identify the parallel resistors: These are the resistors that have two paths connected across them. Use the formula mentioned earlier to find the combined resistance of the parallel section.
3. Replace the series section and parallel section with their equivalent resistances: Once you have the total resistance for each section, replace the series section with a single resistor whose resistance is equal to the total resistance of the series resistors. Similarly, replace the parallel section with a single resistor whose resistance is equal to the combined resistance of the parallel resistors.
4. Simplify the circuit and calculate the total resistance: Once all the series and parallel sections have been reduced to single equivalent resistors, you will have a simplified circuit. Calculate the total resistance of this simplified circuit using the series or parallel rules, as applicable.