Describe the difference between resistors connected in series and resistors connected in parallel.
Question
Describe the difference between resistors connected in series and resistors connected in parallel.
Solution
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Resistors in Series: When resistors are connected in a series, the total resistance (Rt) is the sum of the individual resistances. This is because the same current flows through each resistor, so the total resistance will be the sum of the individual resistances. The formula for total resistance in a series circuit is Rt = R1 + R2 + R3 + ... + Rn.
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Resistors in Parallel: When resistors are connected in parallel, the total resistance decreases. This is because the current has more than one path to follow. The formula for total resistance in a parallel circuit is 1/Rt = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3 + ... + 1/Rn.
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Voltage: In a series circuit, the total voltage is the sum of the voltages across each component, while in a parallel circuit, the voltage across each component is the same.
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Current: In a series circuit, the current is the same through each resistor. In a parallel circuit, the total current is the sum of the currents through each resistor.
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Failure of one component: In a series circuit, if one resistor fails, the entire circuit fails. In a parallel circuit, if one resistor fails, the rest of the circuit can still function.
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