Equivalent resistance refers to the total resistance in a circuit when multiple resistors are connected in a series or parallel configuration.
The calculation for equivalent resistance depends on the type of circuit configuration. In a series circuit, equivalent resistance is the sum of all individual resistances. In a parallel circuit, the inverse of equivalent resistance is equal to the sum of the inverses of each individual resistance.
In a series circuit, the formula for equivalent resistance is Req = R1 + R2 + R3 + ... + Rn, where R1 to Rn are the individual resistances in the circuit.
In a series circuit, adding resistors increases the total equivalent resistance of the circuit. This is because the current must flow through each resistor, causing an overall increase in resistance.
In a parallel circuit, adding resistors decreases the total equivalent resistance of the circuit. This is because the current is divided among the resistors, resulting in a decrease in overall resistance.