Open Question
A uniform wire of resistance R is cut into three equal lengths. One of these is formed into a circle and connected between the other two (Fig. E26.1). What is the resistance between the opposite ends a and b?
27. Resistors & DC Circuits
Combining Resistors in Series & Parallel
Struggling with Physics?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
What is the equivalent resistance of the following combination of resistors?
A
0.4 Ω
B
2.5 Ω
C
7.0 Ω
D
10 Ω
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the configuration of the resistors in the circuit. The 2 Ω and 2 Ω resistors are in series, and their combination is in parallel with the 4 Ω resistor.
Calculate the equivalent resistance of the two 2 Ω resistors in series. The formula for resistors in series is R_series = R1 + R2.
Use the formula for resistors in parallel to find the equivalent resistance of the series combination (from step 2) and the 4 Ω resistor. The formula is 1/R_parallel = 1/R_series + 1/R3.
Add the equivalent resistance from the parallel combination (from step 3) to the 5 Ω resistor, which is in series with the parallel combination. Use the series formula again: R_total = R_parallel + R4.
The result from step 4 is the total equivalent resistance of the circuit.
12:42mWatch next
Master Combining Resistors in Series & Parallel with a bite sized video explanation from Patrick
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Combining Resistors in Series & Parallel practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations