How does adding a resistor to an electric circuit affect the current?
Adding a resistor to an electric circuit affects the current by reducing its value. The current through a resistor is inversely proportional to its resistance according to Ohm's Law.
Ohm's Law states that the current (I) passing through a resistor is equal to the voltage across the resistor (V) divided by the resistance of the resistor (R). Mathematically, it can be expressed as:
I = V/R
Therefore, by increasing the resistance (R) by adding a resistor to the circuit, the current (I) will decrease. Conversely, if the resistance is decreased, the current will increase.
This relationship between resistance and current can be explained by the fact that a resistor provides resistance to the flow of current in a circuit. The higher the resistance, the more it impedes the flow of electrons, reducing the current. Similarly, a lower resistance allows more electrons to flow through, increasing the current.