What is the relationship between the total resistance in a series circuit and individual resistances?

Study for the NEIEP Basic Electricity (330) Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and explanations. Prepare effectively for your exam today!

In a series circuit, the total resistance is calculated by adding together all the individual resistances. This means that if you have multiple resistors connected one after another, the overall resistance that the current encounters is simply the sum of each resistor's resistance value. This fundamental principle is a key characteristic of series circuits, as each resistor contributes to the total resistance encountered by the circuit.

For example, if you have three resistors in series with resistance values of 2 ohms, 3 ohms, and 5 ohms, the total resistance would be calculated as follows:

Total Resistance = 2 ohms + 3 ohms + 5 ohms = 10 ohms.

This additive characteristic is essential for understanding how series circuits behave and allows for accurate calculations in circuit design and analysis.

Other choices do not accurately represent the behavior of resistances in series circuits. Total resistance cannot be less than the smallest resistance, nor does it equal the maximum of all resistances. Additionally, total resistance does not vary with frequency in a direct manner, as resistance itself is a constant property of resistors regardless of frequency. Therefore, the correct understanding of series circuits is encapsulated in the fact that total resistance is the sum of all individual resist

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