In a DC series circuit with resistances of R1 = 10 ohms, R2 = 20 ohms, R3 = 30 ohms, R4 = 40 ohms, and ET = 50 V, what is the total current IT?

To determine the total current IT in a DC series circuit, it's essential to know that the total resistance in a series circuit is the sum of the individual resistances.

In this situation, you have four resistors with resistances of R1 (10 ohms), R2 (20 ohms), R3 (30 ohms), and R4 (40 ohms). To calculate the total resistance (RT), you add these resistances together:

RT = R1 + R2 + R3 + R4
RT = 10 + 20 + 30 + 40
RT = 100 ohms

Once the total resistance is found, you can use Ohm's Law to calculate the total current, which states that I = V / R. Here, you have the total voltage (ET) of 50 V.

Using Ohm's Law:

IT = ET / RT
IT = 50 V / 100 ohms
IT = 0.5 amps

This calculation shows that the total current IT flowing through the circuit is 0.5 amps, confirming that this is the correct answer. Understanding the calculation process clearly shows how combining resistances and applying Ohm's Law leads to the total