Total Resistance in Parallel Circuit
The reciprocal of the total resistance equals the sum of the reciprocals of the individual resistances: (1)/(R(total)) = (1)/(R₁) + (1)/(R₂) + + (1)/(R n). Con…
Syllabus path: Electromagnetism › DC Circuits › Series and Parallel Circuits
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CSCA Physics Formula Reference
Formula and explanation
The reciprocal of the total resistance equals the sum of the reciprocals of the individual resistances: (1)/(R(total)) = (1)/(R₁) + (1)/(R₂) + + (1)/(R n). Conditions: Pure resistive parallel circuit. Explanation: In parallel, the voltage across each branch is the same, and the total current equals the sum of the branch currents. Ohm's law leads to the reciprocal relationship for total resistance.
Related tutorial and examples
Series and Parallel Circuits
Topic: Electromagnetism > DC Circuits > Series and Parallel Circuits 1. Core Model Comparison: Series vs Parallel Distinguishing the connection method is the starting point for all circuit problems. Use the diagram below to intuitively understand the difference in current paths. …
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