Question 5
Describe series and parallel combinations of three resistances.
Answer
When we connect resistors together, we can connect them in different ways to create different electrical circuits. The two most common ways to connect resistors are in series and in parallel.
Series Combination of Three Resistances: In a series combination, resistors are connected one after the other, so that the current flows through each resistor in turn. When three resistors are connected in series, their total resistance is the sum of their individual resistances. That is,
Total resistance = R1 + R2 + R3
Parallel Combination of Three Resistances: In a parallel combination, resistors are connected side by side so that the voltage across each resistor is the same, but the current is divided among them. When three resistors are connected in parallel, their total resistance is calculated using the following formula:
1/Total resistance = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3
