Question

The correct formula to calculate the equivalent resistance of two resistors R₁ and R₂ when connected in parallel, is ______.

Options

• `(R_1 + R_2)/(R_1 R_2)`

• `(R_1 R_2)/(R_1 + R_2)`

• `(R_1 - R_2)/(R_1 R_2)`

• `(R_1 R_2)/(R_1 - R_2)`

Answer 1

The correct formula to calculate the equivalent resistance of two resistors R₁ and R₂ when connected in parallel, is `bbunderline((R_1 R_2)/(R_1 + R_2))`

Explanation:

In a parallel connection of two resistors, the voltage across each resistor remains constant, and the current is distributed across the branches. The reciprocal of the equivalent resistance of two resistors R₁ and R₂ is equal to the total of the reciprocals of their individual resistances, i.e.,

`1/R = 1/R_1 + 1/R_2`

⇒ `1/R = (R_1 + R_2)/(R_1 R_2)`

⇒ R = `(R_1 R_2)/(R_1 + R_2)`