In a circuit with two or more resistances in series, the total resistance in the circuit is the sum of the resistances.

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Multiple Choice

In a circuit with two or more resistances in series, the total resistance in the circuit is the sum of the resistances.

In series, resistors share the same current, and the voltages across them add up to the total voltage. Because the total resistance is what the source must push through, R_total = V_total / I, and each Vi = I × Ri. Adding the voltages gives V_total = I × (R1 + R2 + ...). Solving for R_total yields R_total = R1 + R2 + ... . That’s why the total resistance in a series circuit is the sum of the individual resistances. For example, 4 ohms in series with 6 ohms equals 10 ohms. The idea doesn’t involve multiplying or averaging; in parallel circuits, the rule is different, using a reciprocal sum.

In series, resistors share the same current, and the voltages across them add up to the total voltage. Because the total resistance is what the source must push through, R_total = V_total / I, and each Vi = I × Ri. Adding the voltages gives V_total = I × (R1 + R2 + ...). Solving for R_total yields R_total = R1 + R2 + ... . That’s why the total resistance in a series circuit is the sum of the individual resistances. For example, 4 ohms in series with 6 ohms equals 10 ohms. The idea doesn’t involve multiplying or averaging; in parallel circuits, the rule is different, using a reciprocal sum.

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