How is total resistance calculated in a series circuit?

In a series circuit, total resistance is calculated by summing the resistances of all components. This is due to the nature of series connections, where the current flowing through each resistor is the same, and hence, the total opposition to current is simply the cumulative effect of each individual resistor.

When measuring total resistance in a series circuit, you add each resistor's resistance value together. For example, if you have three resistors in series with values of 2 ohms, 3 ohms, and 5 ohms, the total resistance would be 2 + 3 + 5, which equals 10 ohms. This straightforward addition reflects the fact that each resistor contributes to the overall resistance that limits the current flow in the circuit.

Using the other methods listed, such as multiplying or averaging resistances, would not yield the correct total resistance in a series configuration. Multiplying would incorrectly imply a relationship that does not exist in linear circuits, while averaging would not result in a value that represents the total resistance either. Additionally, relying solely on the maximum resistance would ignore the contributions of other resistors in the series, which is crucial for accurate circuit analysis. Therefore, summing the resistances is the appropriate and correct method to determine total