Difference between Resistors in series and parallel

Difference between Resistors in series and parallel

Resistors in series

1) To increase effective resistance of circuit so as to limiting value of current flow, resistors are connected in series.

2) If three resistors of resistances R1, R2, and R3 are connected in series, shown in figure below,

3.) The current remains the same throughout the circuit.

4.) Potential difference across each resistor is different.

5.) Total potential difference is equal to sum of potential drops across each resistor.

By Ohms law, V = I Rs ,V1 = I R1 , V2 = I R2  and V3 = I R3

Total pd of circuit, V = V1 + V2 + V3

6) Equivalent resistance (RS) of circuit is greater than that of individual resistance and is equal to sum of individual resistance.

7.) For ‘n’ number of resistors

Rs=R1+R2+R3+……………+Rn

Resistors in Parallel

1) To decrease effective resistance of circuit so as to increase the value of current flow, resistors are connected in parallel.

2) If three resistors of resistances R1, R2, and R3 are connected in parallel, shown in figure below,

3.) The potential difference remains the same throughout the circuit.

4.) Current through each resistor is different.

5.) Total current is equal to sum of current drops across each resistor.

Total current of circuit, I = I1 + I2 + I3

By Ohm’ s law, V = I RP  ,V = I1   R1, V = I2  R2  and V = I3  R3

6) Equivalent resistance (RS) of circuit is greater than that of individual resistance and is equal to sum of individual resistance.

Updated: October 5, 2021 — 12:46 pm

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