If three resistors of 12 ohms, 5 ohms, and 1 ohm are connected in parallel, what will be the combined resistance?

Prepare for the MTA Transit Electrical Helper Exam with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Hints and explanations accompany each question. Get ready for your exam!

When resistors are connected in parallel, the total or combined resistance decreases and is given by the formula:

[ \frac{1}{R_{total}} = \frac{1}{R_1} + \frac{1}{R_2} + \frac{1}{R_3} ]

In this case, the resistors are 12 ohms, 5 ohms, and 1 ohm. Applying the formula results in:

[ \frac{1}{R_{total}} = \frac{1}{12} + \frac{1}{5} + \frac{1}{1} ]

Calculating the individual fractions:

  • ( \frac{1}{12} ) approximately equals 0.0833

  • ( \frac{1}{5} ) equals 0.2

  • ( \frac{1}{1} ) equals 1

Now, adding these fractions together:

[ 0.0833 + 0.2 + 1 = 1.2833 ]

To find ( R_{total} ), take the reciprocal:

[ R_{total} = \frac{1}{1.2833} \approx 0.778

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