What happens to current in a series circuit?

Current is the same through every component. The total voltage divides across the resistors proportional to their resistance.

Why would you connect resistors in series?

To create a larger resistance value or to build a voltage divider circuit.

What if one resistor in a series circuit fails open?

The entire circuit breaks and no current flows, like a burnt-out bulb on old Christmas lights.

Free Series Resistance Calculator

Calculate total resistance of resistors connected in series: R_total = R1 + R2 + R3.

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Resistor 1

Resistor 2

Resistor 3 (0 if unused)

Total Resistance

650.00 Ω

Total Resistance vs Resistor 1

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Series Resistance

Resistors in series carry the same current, and their resistances add directly.

Formula

R_total = R1 + R2 + R3 + ...

The total resistance is always greater than the largest individual resistor.

Example Calculation

Three resistors in series: 100, 220, and 330 ohms.

01R_total = R1 + R2 + R3
02R_total = 100 + 220 + 330
03R_total = 650 Ω

Frequently Asked Questions

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