Question map
Three equal resistors are connected in parallel configuration in a closed electrical circuit. Then the total resistance in the circuit becomes
Explanation
In a parallel electrical circuit, the reciprocal of the equivalent resistance is equal to the sum of the reciprocals of the individual resistances [1]. For a set of resistors connected in parallel, the equivalent resistance (Rp) is calculated using the formula 1/Rp = 1/R1 + 1/R2 +... + 1/Rn. When three identical resistors, each with resistance R, are connected in parallel, the formula simplifies to 1/Rp = 1/R + 1/R + 1/R, which equals 3/R. Solving for Rp gives Rp = R/3. This demonstrates that the total resistance of identical resistors in parallel is equal to the individual resistance divided by the number of resistors (n), which in this case is three. Consequently, the total resistance becomes exactly one-third of the individual resistance.
Sources
- [1] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 11: Electricity > Activity 11.6 > p. 186