What happens to total current in a parallel circuit if the resistance decreases?

Study for the Independent Electrical Contractors (IEC) Year 2 Part 3 Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations to prepare confidently. Get exam-ready now!

In a parallel circuit, the total current is directly affected by the total resistance of the circuit. According to Ohm's Law, which states that Current (I) = Voltage (V) / Resistance (R), if the resistance decreases while the voltage remains constant, the total current will increase.

When resistors are added in parallel or when the resistance of existing branches decreases, the equivalent resistance of the circuit also decreases. This reduction in resistance allows more pathways for current to flow, thereby increasing the total current drawn from the source.

For example, if you have multiple resistors in parallel and one of them has its resistance lowered, it becomes easier for electricity to flow through that path, resulting in a higher total current across the entire parallel circuit. Thus, the understanding of current flow in parallel circuits fundamentally supports the notion that a decrease in resistance leads to an increase in total current, affirming that the correct choice is indeed the one indicating an increase in total current.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy