# Explain why two identical resistors connected in parallel have a combined resistance that is less than the resistance of either individual resistor.

> IB DP Physics Standard Level (2023 syllabus) — B.5 Current and circuits · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. In a parallel arrangement, current can travel through more than one path simultaneously.
2. The total current drawn from the source is greater than through either resistor alone (for the same potential difference).
3. Since R = V/I, a larger total current for the same voltage means the combined resistance is smaller.
4. For two identical resistors each of resistance R in parallel, the combined resistance is R/2, which is less than R.

## Key terms

- [resistance](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/resistance)

## Related

- [Revision notes for IB DP Physics Standard Level (2023 syllabus)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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