Automotive Electronics Practice Test

What is the effect on the total resistance if a resistor is added in series with others?

1. It remains the same

2. It decreases

3. It increases

4. It becomes infinite

The correct answer is: It increases

When a resistor is added in series with other resistors, the total resistance in the circuit increases. This is due to the nature of series circuits, where the total resistance is simply the sum of all individual resistances connected in the series. Each additional resistor contributes its resistance value to the overall total. For example, if you have two resistors in series, the total resistance is calculated by adding their resistances together. When a third resistor is added in series, the same principle applies; thus, the total resistance becomes even higher. This is fundamental to understanding how resistors behave in series configurations and is essential when calculating circuit parameters such as current flow and voltage drop across each component. The concept of total resistance increasing is crucial in designing circuits, especially in applications where specific resistance values are needed to ensure proper function and safety of electronic devices.