Direct current Combining resistors resistors in parallel: In a parallel circuit, current is divided among multiple paths. This means that two resistors in parallel have a lower equivalent resistance than either of the parallel resistors, since both resistors allow current to pass. iso R R, total resistance, R -resistance of resistor i resistors in series: Resistors in series are equivalent to having one long resistor. This means that the resistors add when in series. R, total resistance, R resistance of resistor i