The equivalent resistance between points 1 and 2 of the circuit shown is:
A) 3 $\Omega$
B) 4 $\Omega$
C) 5 $\Omega$
D) 6 $\Omega$
E) 7 $\Omega$

Question

The equivalent resistance between points 1 and 2 of the circuit shown is: 
A) 3 $\Omega$ 
B) 4 $\Omega$ 
C) 5 $\Omega$ 
D) 6 $\Omega$ 
E) 7 $\Omega$

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

We can simplify the circuit by combining resistors in series and in parallel. First we combine the 4 ohm and 6 ohm resistors in series to get 10 ohms. Then we combine the 2 ohm and 3 ohm resistors in series to get 5 ohms. Next, we have two resistors in parallel: the 10 ohm resistor and the 5 ohm resistor. The equivalent resistance of two resistors in parallel is given by:

1/Req = 1/R1 + 1/R2

where R1 and R2 are the values of the two resistors in ohms. Plugging in our values, we get:

1/Req = 1/10 + 1/5 = 3/10

Multiplying both sides by 10/3 gives:

Req = 10/3 = 3.33 ohms

Rounding to the nearest whole number gives us 3 ohms, so the answer is C.

The Equivalent Resistance Between Points 1 and 2 of the Circuit