How do you calculate total resistance in a series circuit?

To calculate the total resistance in a series circuit, the correct approach is to simply add up the resistance values of all the components connected in series. Thus, total resistance is expressed as R_total = R1 + R2 + R3.

In a series circuit, the current flowing through each resistor is the same, and the overall resistance faced by that current is the sum of the individual resistances. This means that as resistors are added in series, the total opposition to the current increases, resulting in a higher total resistance. Each resistor contributes its resistance value to the total, reflecting the cumulative effect of resistance along the entire circuit path.

This fundamental principle is crucial in circuit design and analysis, as it helps determine how variations in resistance affect the current flow and voltage drops across components in various applications.