How does the total resistance in a parallel circuit compare to individual resistances?

In a parallel circuit, the total resistance is calculated using the formula that involves the reciprocals of the individual resistances. Specifically, the formula is given by:

1/R_total = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3 + ...

This means that when you have multiple paths for current to flow, the total resistance decreases. As a result, the total resistance in a parallel circuit will always be less than the smallest individual resistance among the parallel components. This decrease in total resistance occurs because adding more paths for current reduces the overall opposition to the current.

For instance, in a situation where you have resistors with values of 2 ohms, 4 ohms, and 6 ohms in parallel, the total resistance will be less than 2 ohms, which is the smallest individual resistance. This principle is particularly useful in designing circuits that require lower resistance to allow higher current to flow.

The other options do not accurately describe the behavior of total resistance in parallel circuits. The total resistance cannot be more than or equal to the individual resistances, nor is it independent of them, as it is dependent on the reciprocal values of those individual resistances.