Resistors in Series & Parallel Simplified Revision Notes for GCSE AQA Physics Combined Science

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Learn about Series & Parallel Circuits for your GCSE Physics Combined Science Exam. This Revision Note includes a summary of Series & Parallel Circuits for easy recall in your Physics Combined Science exam

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2.2.2 Resistors in Series & Parallel

Resistance in a Series Circuit

Total Resistance:

infoNote

When resistors are connected in series, the total resistance is the sum of the individual resistances:

R_{\text{total}}=R1+R2+…

This is because the current must pass through each resistor, adding to the overall resistance of the circuit.

Resistance (R) is measured in ohms (Ω)

Resistance in a Parallel Circuit

Combined Resistance:

infoNote

When resistors are connected in parallel, the combined resistance is always less than the smallest individual resistor. The total or combined resistance $R_{\text{total}}$ for resistors in parallel is found using the formula:

R_{\text{total}}=\frac{1}{R_1} + \frac{1}{R_2} + \frac{1}{R_3}+...

This is because, in a parallel circuit, the current has multiple paths to take, reducing the overall resistance. As more resistors are added in parallel, the total resistance decreases.

Like in series circuits, resistance is measured in ohms (Ω).

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