- Identify the series and parallel combinations: R2 and R3 are in series. R4 and R5 are in parallel. The combination of R4 and R5 is in series with R6. The series combination of R2 and R3 is in parallel with the series combination of (R4||R5) and R6. This entire parallel combination is in series with R1.
- Calculate the equivalent resistance of R2 and R3 in series: R23 = R2 + R3 = 49Ω + 51Ω = 100Ω.
- Calculate the equivalent resistance of R4 and R5 in parallel: R45 = (R4 * R5) / (R4 + R5) = (37Ω * 45Ω) / (37Ω + 45Ω) = 1665 / 82 ≈ 20.305Ω.
- Calculate the equivalent resistance of R45 and R6 in series: R456 = R45 + R6 = 20.305Ω + 75Ω ≈ 95.305Ω.
- Calculate the equivalent resistance of R23 and R456 in parallel: R23456 = (R23 * R456) / (R23 + R456) = (100Ω * 95.305Ω) / (100Ω + 95.305Ω) ≈ 9530.5 / 195.305 ≈ 48.798Ω.
- Calculate the total equivalent resistance of the circuit by adding R1 in series with R23456: Req = R1 + R23456 = 80Ω + 48.798Ω ≈ 128.798Ω.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of series circuit math.
