Series Resistor Calculator

Calculate the equivalent resistance of resistors connected in series. In series circuits, resistances simply add together.

Series Resistor Circuit

    ────── R1 ────── R2 ────── R3 ────── R4 ──────
    
    Formula: Rtotal = R1 + R2 + R3 + R4
    Current: Same through all resistors
    Voltage: Divides across resistors

Series Resistors

About Series Resistors

When resistors are connected in series, they form a single path for current flow. The total resistance is the sum of all individual resistances.

Key Properties:

  • Higher Total Resistance: Always greater than any individual resistor
  • Same Current: Current is identical through all resistors
  • Voltage Division: Voltage divides proportionally to resistance values
  • Single Path: If one resistor fails (open circuit), current stops

Applications:

  • Voltage divider circuits
  • Current limiting
  • LED current control
  • Sensor circuits

Voltage Division Rule:

For any resistor in series: VR = (R/Rtotal) × Vsupply

The resistor with the highest resistance gets the highest voltage drop.