The parallel combination of a 330 resistor and a 470 resistor is connected in series with the parallel combination of four 1 $k \Omega$ resistors. If a 100 V source is connected across the circuit, then which resistor carries the most current?
A) 470
B) 330 $\Omega$
C) 1 $\mathrm { k } \Omega$

Question

The parallel combination of a  330  resistor and a  470  resistor is connected in series with the parallel combination of four  1 $k \Omega$  resistors. If a  100 V  source is connected across the circuit, then which resistor carries the most current?
A) 470 
B) 330 $\Omega$ 
C) 1 $\mathrm { k } \Omega$

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In a parallel combination of resistors, the current through each resistor is inversely proportional to its resistance. Therefore, the current through the 330 $\Omega$ resistor will be greater than the current through the 470 $\Omega$ resistor.

Next, in a series combination of resistors, the current through each resistor is the same. Therefore, the current through the parallel combination of four 1 $k \Omega$ resistors will be the same.

Since the current through the 330 $\Omega$ resistor is greater than the current through the 470 $\Omega$ resistor and both are connected in series with the parallel combination of four 1 $k \Omega$ resistors, the most current will flow through the 330 $\Omega$ resistor.

The Parallel Combination of a Resistor and a