Resistors Definition and 603 Threads

I don't see how voltage (in a series circuit)is dropped by a resistor if there is more than one connected (divides the voltage) EX: 12V total and 2 resistors diving it into two 6-Volt sections. Wouldn't that drop the WHOLE voltage to 6V? AND Why would a resitor drop VOLTAGE? Shouldn't it resist...

If you have 12 resistors, each rated for 600ohms, how could you arrange them to make a total resistance of 500ohms?

http://www.holymac.com/physics_problem.gif Can anyone solve this? Or show me in detail what to do? A complete step-by-step solution would be preferable though. Thanks!