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ASPhysicsCIERevision Notes10. D.C. Circuits10.1 DC: Practical Circuits & Kirchhoff's Laws10.1.7 Resistors in Series

Resistors in Series (CIE AS Physics)

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Katie M

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Deriving the Equation for Resistors in Series

  • In a series circuit, the combined resistance of two or more resistors is the sum of the individual resistances
  • In a series circuit:
    • The current is the same through all resistors
    • The potential difference is split between all the resistors

  • The equation for combined resistors in series is derived using Kirchhoff’s laws:

Derivation for resistors in series, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

Resistors in Series

  • When two or more components are connected in series:
    • The combined resistance of the components is equal to the sum of individual resistances

Resistors in series diagram, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

Resistors connected in series

 

Resistors in series equation, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

Combined resistance of two or more resistors in series equation

Worked example

The combined resistance R in the following series circuit is 60 Ω.What is the resistance value of R2?A.     100 Ω               B.     30 Ω               C.     20 Ω               D.     40 Ω

WE - Resistors in series answer image, downloadable AS & A Level Physics revision notes

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    Katie M

    Author: Katie M

    Expertise: Physics

    Katie has always been passionate about the sciences, and completed a degree in Astrophysics at Sheffield University. She decided that she wanted to inspire other young people, so moved to Bristol to complete a PGCE in Secondary Science. She particularly loves creating fun and absorbing materials to help students achieve their exam potential.