The total circuit resistance when a 0.52 Ω internal resistance battery drives a 2 Ω load is:

The total circuit resistance when a 0.52 Ω internal resistance battery drives a 2 Ω load is:

• A. 1.52 Ω
• B. 2.0 Ω
• C. 2.52 Ω
• D. 3.0 Ω

Answer: (C)

Resistances in series simply add up, and the battery’s internal resistance is part of the path the current must take, so it adds to the load. Add 0.52 Ω to the 2 Ω load: 0.52 + 2 = 2.52 Ω. Therefore, the total circuit resistance is 2.52 Ω. This reflects the extra opposition the battery itself provides, not just the external load.

Resistances in series simply add up, and the battery’s internal resistance is part of the path the current must take, so it adds to the load. Add 0.52 Ω to the 2 Ω load: 0.52 + 2 = 2.52 Ω. Therefore, the total circuit resistance is 2.52 Ω. This reflects the extra opposition the battery itself provides, not just the external load.