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Activity 11.5 — Resistors in Parallel

NCERT Activity 11.5: Connect three resistors in parallel. Observe that voltage is the same across all, current divides, and 1/Rp = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3.

How To Perform

1

Set Up Parallel Circuit

Connect R1=6Ω, R2=12Ω, R3=4Ω in parallel across a 12V battery.

2

Measure Currents

Use ammeters to measure current through each branch.

3

Calculate Total R

Verify: 1/Rp = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3 → Rp = 2Ω.

4

Understand

Why is total parallel R always less than the smallest R?

⚠️ Safety Notes

  • Ensure all branches are properly connected in parallel.
  • High currents may flow in low-resistance branches — use appropriate wire gauge.