Electrical Circuits
Series Resistance
When resistances are connected in series, the same current flows through each one and the total voltage is shared between them. The equivalent resistance is simply the sum of the individual resistances. This makes the total larger than any single element, and it means that one open element interrupts the whole series path.
Series Resistance
R_total = R1 + R2 + … + Rn
Variables and units
| Symbol | Quantity | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| R_total | Equivalent resistance | Ω |
| R1 … Rn | Individual series resistances | Ω |
Conditions of application
Resistances connected in series so that the same current flows through each element. The rule applies to ideal resistors; real components also have tolerance and power limits.
Worked example
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Total resistance of resistors connected in series, plus current and power for a supply voltage.