In a parallel circuit, the total resistance (RT) can be calculated using the formula:
1 / RT = 1 / R1 + 1 / R2 + 1 / R3 + ... + 1 / Rn
Where:
RT is the total resistance of the parallel circuit.
R1, R2, R3, ..., Rn are the resistances of individual components connected in parallel.
To calculate the total resistance, follow these steps:
Identify the resistance values of all the components connected in parallel.
Take the reciprocal (1/R) of each individual resistance.
Add up all the reciprocals of the resistances.
Take the reciprocal of the sum from step 3 to get the total resistance.
Here's an example:
Let's say you have three resistors connected in parallel with resistance values of 4 ohms, 6 ohms, and 8 ohms.
1/R1 = 1/4
1/R2 = 1/6
1/R3 = 1/8
Adding the reciprocals:
1/Rtotal = 1/4 + 1/6 + 1/8
Now, calculate the sum:
1/Rtotal = (3/12) + (2/12) + (1/12) = 6/12
Finally, take the reciprocal of the sum:
Rtotal = 12/6 = 2 ohms
So, the total resistance of the parallel circuit is 2 ohms.