Resistors in Series: Resistance

Total Resistance in Series Circuit

• The total resistance of multiple resistors connected in series is equal to the sum of all the individual resistances.
• In other words, resistances add up in a series circuit.

Formula for Total Resistance (R_total) in Series

• To calculate the total resistance in a series circuit, simply add the resistances of all the components.
• R_total = R₁ + R₂ + R₃ + ...

Example Calculation

• If you have three resistors with resistances R₁ = 10 Ω, R₂ = 15 Ω, and R₃ = 20 Ω connected in series:
  • R_total = R₁ + R₂ + R₃ = 10 Ω + 15 Ω + 20 Ω = 45 Ω

Effects on Current

• In a series circuit, the total resistance determines the overall current in the circuit.
• Higher total resistance leads to lower current (I = V / R_total).

Ohm's Law for Total Resistance

• Ohm's Law (V = I * R) can be used to understand resistance:
  • V represents potential difference (in volts, V).
  • I is the current (in amperes, A) passing through the circuit.
  • R_total is the total resistance (in ohms, Ω) in the series circuit.

In Summary

• In a series circuit, total resistance equals the sum of individual resistances.
• Total resistance affects the current in the circuit; higher resistance results in lower current.
• Total resistance can be calculated by adding the resistances of all the components in series.
• Ohm's Law (V = I * R) helps relate potential difference, current, and resistance in a series circuit.