What is the formula to find total resistance in a parallel circuit?

In a parallel circuit, the total resistance can be calculated using the formula (1/R_t = 1/R_1 + 1/R_2 + 1/R_3). This formula reflects how parallel circuits function, where the inverse of total resistance is equal to the sum of the inverses of individual resistances.

In parallel circuits, the voltage across each resistor is the same, allowing each resistor to contribute to the overall current in a unique way. Because of this configuration, adding more branches (resistors) decreases overall resistance; thus, the reciprocal calculation is necessary to find total resistance. Applying the formula effectively shows how each resistor's contribution impacts the total resistance of the circuit.

By using this approach, it becomes clearer that as more resistors are added in parallel, the total resistance decreases—an essential concept in electrical systems design and analysis. This understanding is critical for safely and effectively designing and analyzing circuits in various electrical applications.