In a _________ circuit, the total resistance is greater than the largest resistance in the circuit.

Question

Examoogle · Accepted Answer

Series

Explanation: In a series circuit, the total equivalent resistance ($R_{eq}$) is the algebraic sum of all individual resistors connected in the loop. Because each component adds to the overall path impedance, the final sum is mathematically guaranteed to be greater than any single resistor present in that circuit.

Working Principle: In series, the current remains the same through all components while the voltage divides across them. By Kirchhoff's Voltage Law (KVL), the total voltage drop is the sum of individual drops, which leads to $V = I(R_1 + R_2 + ... + R_n)$. Thus, $R_{eq} = R_1 + R_2 + ... + R_n$, ensuring the total is strictly greater than the maximum individual value.

Key Formulas: $R_{eq} = \sum_{i=1}^{n} R_i$ — Total resistance in series; $R_{eq}

Key Points: Series connection increases total circuit resistance.; Parallel connection decreases total circuit resistance.; The total resistance in parallel is always less than the smallest individual resistor.; In series, $R_{eq}$ is always strictly greater than the largest individual resistance value.

Advantages: Simple control of current using a single switch; Easy to calculate total resistance via algebraic summation

Disadvantages: If one component fails, the entire circuit path is broken; Current is limited by the sum of all resistances

Applications: String lights (traditional); Voltage dividers; Current limiting resistors

Additional Info: In a series circuit, adding more resistors increases the power dissipation if voltage is held constant.. Option B is incorrect because in parallel circuits, the total resistance is always less than the smallest resistor value.

Answer: A is correct — The total equivalent resistance in a series circuit is the sum of all individual resistances, making it inherently greater than the largest individual resistance.

Exam Tip: Always remember: Series = Summing resistors (Increasing R); Parallel = Reciprocal sum (Decreasing R).

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