In a series circuit, how is total resistance determined?

In a series circuit, the total resistance is determined by adding together the individual resistances of each component. This is because in a series circuit, the current must pass through each resistor sequentially, which means that the overall resistance is the sum of the resistances of each component in that series. When resistors are added together, their effects on current flow accumulate, resulting in a higher total resistance.

For example, if you have three resistors with values R1, R2, and R3, the total resistance can be calculated using the formula R_total = R1 + R2 + R3. This concept is important in understanding how circuits operate, as it allows one to predict the behavior of the circuit as a whole based on the properties of its individual components.

The other formulas provided do not represent the correct method for calculating total resistance in a series circuit. The subtraction and multiplication formulas, as well as the reciprocal formula, apply to different scenarios, such as parallel circuits or specific calculations involving power or different configurations. Hence, the additive approach in series circuits is solely applicable here.