Resistances in parallel and series: meaning and calculation
Learn to calculate parallel and series resistances effectively. Discover the formula and practical examples. Learn with Greenice!
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Understanding parallel and series resistances is essential for effective circuit design, optimization of energy efficiency, maintenance of electrical systems and problem solving. This understanding gives you the necessary tools to work more effectively in the field of electricity and electronics.
If you are here to get into the design and analysis of electrical circuits, this guide will help you recognize, with easy examples, what types of resistance there are and how the equivalent resistance can be calculated to simplify complex circuits and analyze its behavior with greater precision are you ready?
1 What is parallel resistance?
When the resistances are connected in parallel, they are arranged so that both ends are connected to each other, forming "bridges" for the electric current. In this arrangement, the tension in each resistance is the same, while the total current is divided between them.
To understand it better, let's imagine two bulbs connected to an energy source. Both bulbs will receive the same tension, but the current will be divided between them. If one bulb goes out, the other will continue to function, since both have the same voltage source. Here is acting in parallel.
2 What is series resistance?
In contrast to parallel resistance, series resistances are arranged online, so that the current flows from a resistance to the next. In this arrangement, the current is the same in all resistance, but the total tension is divided between them.
For example, consider a chain of resistances in a circuit. The current that flows through each resistance is identical, but the total tension is distributed among them. If a resistance fails, the current flow is interrupted for the entire circuit.
3 How to calculate the equivalent resistance
Parallel resistance calculation
In a parallel arrangement, resistors create "bridges" that allow the current to flow freely.
To calculate the equivalent resistance you need the following formula:
| 1 | = | 1 | + | 1 | + | ... | + | 1 |
| Req | R1 | R2 | R1 |
This expression shows us how total resistance is inversely proportional to the sum of individual resistances. It is like a mathematical choreography where investments are added to create collective resistance.
Series resistance calculation
When the resistances are aligned in series, the current flows from one to another in an uninterrupted way. Calculating the equivalent resistance (REQ) in series is simpler: we add the individual resistances:
Req + R1 + R2 + ... + r1
It is like a linear trip where resistance follow each other after another, creating total direct resistance.
Although it seems easy, these fundamental formulas are the master key to decipher the total resistance in more intricate circuits. Whether it is a parallel dance or a series alignment, the expressions of this guide will help you simplify and better understand the behavior of the electrical circuits, always have it by hand!