When a pair of identical resistors are connected in series, which of the following is the same for both resistors: (a) voltage across each, (b) power dissipated in each, (c) current through each? Do any of your answers change if the resistors are different from each other?

(b) power dissipated in each.

(c) current through each.

Explanation:

When resistors are connected in series, the current through each resistor is the same. In other words, the current is the same at all points in a series circuit.

Rt = R1 + R2

Vt = V1 + V2

Power dissipated is only the same if R1 = R2

Power, P = I^2R

If R1 is not equal to R2,

P1 = I^2 R1

P2 = I^2 R2

Therefore, P1 is not equal to P2