Series and parallel resistor networks
Series shares current; parallel shares voltage.
Key knowledge
For ideal positive ohmic resistors in a lumped network, a series chain without intermediate branches has R_eq=ΣR_i. Resistors connected across the same two nodes are parallel and obey 1/R_eq=Σ1/R_i. Apparent physical proximity in a drawing does not establish either connection; node connectivity does.
Values and equations
R_series=Σ_iR_i; 1/R_parallel=Σ_i(1/R_i)
- R_i,R_series,R_parallel
- Individual and equivalent resistances Ω
- i
- Resistor index 1
Conditions and scope
- Positive finite R_i, ideal connecting wires and the valid lumped/quasistatic Kirchhoff regime.
- Networks that are not reducible by these connections need the actual node/loop equations. Element resistance must remain valid at its operating temperature and power.
Sources · 1
References
Sources retain their recorded scope. A source link alone does not establish verification of every statement.
Evidence and review
Read §10.2 actual series10.1 and parallel10.2 derivations, including same-current/same-node-voltage topology. No claim that every network decomposes into series/parallel elements.
2026-10-10 · /root/audit_life_earth_chemistry — independent Chemistry/Life/Earth editor. Independent AI editorial review of this entry's statements, equations, applicability conditions and source coverage. Source checks apply to these claims within their stated limits.
Entry details
Permanent link to this entry ↗- Record identity
- foundation-physics-resistor-networks
- Revision
- foundations-refresh.1
- Structured reference record
- Foundational reference additions