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Problem Solving
Complex Electric Circuits
Chapter 15
BLM 15-2
Goal
Assess your ability to solve problems involving complex electric circuits.
Procedure
Solve the following problems in the space provided or on a separate sheet of paper.
1. Resistors R1, R2, and R3, having values of 2 , 6 , and 12 , respectively, are
connected in series to a 12 V source. Draw the diagram for this circuit below, then
find and record RN, IN, and the voltage drop across each resistor.
2. The same resistors are connected in parallel to a 12 V source. Draw the diagram
for this circuit below, then find RN , IN, and the voltage drop across, and current
through, each resistor.
3.
The same resistors are connected to a 12 V source so that R1 and R2 are in parallel
with each other but in series with R3. Draw the diagram for this circuit below and
find RN, IN, and the voltage drop across, and current through, each resistor.
Copyright © 2003 McGraw-Hill Ryerson Limited.
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4. You want to connect a cassette player to your 12 V car battery. You know that the
player uses four 1.5 V D cells connected in series. It also says on the back of the
player that it requires 2.0 A of current. Calculate the value of the resistor that must
be placed in series with the player in order for it to receive the correct voltage.
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5. What happens when a parallel resistor is added to a circuit?
(a) The total resistance decreases.
(b) The total resistance increases.
(c) The total voltage decreases.
(d) The total voltage increases.
6. A toaster plugged into an electrical outlet is toasting bread. What will happen to
the current in the circuit if a lamp plugged into the same outlet is turned on?
(a) It will decrease.
(b) It will increase.
(c) It will remain the same.
(d) The answer depends on the power rating of the lamp.
7. What is the total resistance between points A and B in this circuit diagram? Each
resistor is rated at 10.0 .
(a) 10.0 
(b) 20.0 
(c) 30.0 
(d) 50.0 
Copyright © 2003 McGraw-Hill Ryerson Limited.
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8.
Class:
Use the appropriate rule to determine the unknowns in the following diagrams.
Copyright © 2003 McGraw-Hill Ryerson Limited.