Math Problem Statement

Express the equivalent resistance of the combination of R3, R4, R5 and R6.

Solution

To determine the equivalent resistance of the combination of resistors R3R_3, R4R_4, R5R_5, and R6R_6, we need to analyze how these resistors are connected.

From the image:

  1. Parallel Combination:
    • R4R_4 and R5R_5 are connected in series, which we can combine first: R45=R4+R5R_{45} = R_4 + R_5
    • R45R_{45} is then connected in parallel with R6R_6: R456=(1R45+1R6)1=(1R4+R5+1R6)1R_{456} = \left(\frac{1}{R_{45}} + \frac{1}{R_6}\right)^{-1} = \left(\frac{1}{R_4 + R_5} + \frac{1}{R_6}\right)^{-1}
    • Now, R3R_3 is connected in series with R456R_{456}: R3456=R3+R456R_{3456} = R_3 + R_{456}
    • Thus, the equivalent resistance of the combination of R3R_3, R4R_4, R5R_5, and R6R_6 is given by: Req=R3+(1R4+R5+1R6)1R_{\text{eq}} = R_3 + \left(\frac{1}{R_4 + R_5} + \frac{1}{R_6}\right)^{-1}

Would you like more details on any specific part of this process?

Here are five related questions to deepen your understanding:

  1. How does the series connection of resistors differ from a parallel connection in terms of equivalent resistance?
  2. If one of the resistors R4R_4 or R5R_5 were removed, how would that affect the equivalent resistance?
  3. Can you calculate the equivalent resistance if specific values for R3R_3, R4R_4, R5R_5, and R6R_6 were given?
  4. What are the implications of high versus low resistance in a circuit?
  5. How does the equivalent resistance of a circuit impact the total current flowing through it?

Tip: Always remember to simplify resistor networks step by step, combining series and parallel connections progressively to find the overall equivalent resistance.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Series and parallel circuits
Equivalent resistance

Formulas

Parallel resistance formula
Series resistance formula

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Advanced High School