When several resistors are joined in series, the equivalent resistance of the combination is:

Correct option is B

Correct Answer: (B) equal to the sum of the individual resistances

Explanation: When several resistors are connected in series, the equivalent resistance (Rₑ) is the sum of the individual resistances (R₁, R₂, R₃, ...). The total resistance in a series combination is given by the formula:

​$$R_{eq} = R_1 + R_2 + R_3 + …$$​​

This is because the current has to pass through each resistor one after the other, resulting in the total resistance being the sum of the individual resistances.

Other Options:

• greater than the sum of the individual resistances: This is incorrect. The total resistance is the sum, not greater.
• less than the sum of the individual resistances: This is incorrect. In series, the total resistance is greater than any individual resistance.
• equal to the product of the individual resistances: This is incorrect. The product of resistances is used when resistors are in parallel, not in series.