Resistors in Series and Parallel Name: Abstract Include instead ✓ Solved

The objective of this lab is to investigate the characteristics of resistors in series and parallel configurations. This investigation encompasses measuring resistance, voltage, and current across different resistor values and understanding the relationship between these electrical parameters. The lab involved setting up circuits with resistors in series and parallel, utilizing a Digital Multimeter (DMM) to record key data points for analysis.

The experiment began with constructing two circuits: one for resistors in series and the other for resistors in parallel. Measurements of voltage and current across the resistors were taken using the DMM, and calculations were performed to determine equivalent resistance (R_eq) and theoretical versus actual measurements of voltage and current. Conclusively, the findings illustrated the differences in total resistance and current distribution between series and parallel circuits, affirming theoretical predictions.

In the first part of the lab, we focused on measuring resistors in a series configuration consisting of a 100 Ω, 1 kΩ, and a 2.2 kΩ resistor. The DMM provided key insights into how the voltage drops and current flow behaved within the circuit. In the second part, we examined resistors in parallel, taking note of how the total current and voltage interfaced with multiple branches. This hands-on experience solidified the understanding of Ohm's Law and the concepts pertaining to resistance in different configurations.

As a visual representation of the circuit setup, a photo from part I is included, showing the DMM indicating the voltage measurement for the circuit. The data collected was essential for calculating R_eq as well as assessing the performance of individual resistors under varying conditions.

Data Tables

Part I: Resistors in Series - Data Table 1

Below is the data recorded for the series configuration:

Part II: Resistors in Parallel - Data Table 2

Below is the data recorded for the parallel configuration:

Calculations

The following calculations were performed based on the data obtained from both configurations:

1) R_eq calculation: R_eq for series: R_eq = R1 + R2 + R3 R_eq for parallel: 1/R_eq = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3.

2) For the parallel circuit, the total current (I) and the individual currents (I1, I2) through the resistors were determined using Ohm’s law (V = IR).

Conclusions

In conclusion, the experiment confirmed theoretical expectations of voltage and current distribution in series versus parallel circuits. In series configurations, resistances add up to a larger total resistance, thereby decreasing total current. Conversely, in parallel configurations, the total resistance decreases which results in increased total current flow. The hands-on measurements from the DMM validated our calculations and illustrated the fundamental principles of electrical circuits.

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