In a fixed-voltage series circuit, if you double one resistor and leave the other unchanged, what happens to the total resistance?

Study for the High School Physics Test. Study with quizzes, flashcards, and multiple choice questions, each question comes with hints and explanations. Prepare effectively for your exam!

Multiple Choice

In a fixed-voltage series circuit, if you double one resistor and leave the other unchanged, what happens to the total resistance?

In a fixed-voltage series circuit, resistances add together to give the total resistance. If you double one resistor, the sum becomes R1' + R2 = 2R1 + R2, which is larger than the original R1 + R2 by exactly R1. So the total resistance increases. For example, if R1 = 4 Ω and R2 = 3 Ω, the original total is 7 Ω; doubling R1 makes the total 11 Ω. This shows why the total resistance must rise.

In a fixed-voltage series circuit, resistances add together to give the total resistance. If you double one resistor, the sum becomes R1' + R2 = 2R1 + R2, which is larger than the original R1 + R2 by exactly R1. So the total resistance increases. For example, if R1 = 4 Ω and R2 = 3 Ω, the original total is 7 Ω; doubling R1 makes the total 11 Ω. This shows why the total resistance must rise.

More practice questions