What happens when resistors are connected in series?

When resistors are connected in series, the total resistance increases because the resistances of each individual resistor simply add together. In a series circuit, the current flowing through each resistor is the same, but the voltage is divided among the resistors based on their individual resistances. As a result, the overall resistance is the sum of the resistances of the individual resistors added in line with each other.

For example, if you have two resistors with resistances of 4 ohms and 6 ohms connected in series, the total resistance would be 4 + 6 = 10 ohms. This characteristic of series circuits is crucial in electrical engineering and circuit design, as it impacts how voltage, current, and power distribute throughout the circuit.

In contrast, if resistors were connected in parallel, the total resistance would decrease, as the paths for current would be multiplied, allowing more current to flow overall. Hence, the total resistance in series is precisely calculated and predictable, not remaining the same or becoming unpredictable, as might occur in other configurations like parallel circuits.