1. What is Parallel Resistance?

The equivalent resistance of resistors in parallel is always less than any individual resistor in the combination. This is because the current has multiple paths to flow through, reducing the overall resistance.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the parallel resistance formula:

Where:

• \( R1 \) — Resistance of first resistor (Ω)
• \( R2 \) — Resistance of second resistor (Ω)
• \( R3 \) — Resistance of third resistor (Ω)

Explanation: The reciprocal of the equivalent resistance equals the sum of the reciprocals of each individual resistance.

3. Importance of Parallel Resistance Calculation

Details: Calculating parallel resistance is essential for circuit design, analyzing electrical networks, and understanding how current divides in parallel branches.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter resistance values in ohms (Ω) for all three resistors. All values must be positive numbers greater than 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What if one resistor is 0Ω?
A: The equivalent resistance would be 0Ω, as this would create a short circuit.

Q2: What happens when more resistors are added in parallel?
A: The equivalent resistance decreases because there are more paths for current to flow.

Q3: How does parallel resistance compare to series resistance?
A: In series, resistances add up directly. In parallel, the equivalent resistance is always less than the smallest individual resistance.

Q4: What's the special case when all resistors are equal?
A: For N equal resistors R in parallel, the equivalent resistance is R/N.

Q5: Can this calculator be used for more than 3 resistors?
A: No, this calculator is specifically for 3 resistors. The formula can be extended for more resistors by adding more reciprocal terms.