What does resistance oppose in an electrical circuit?

Prepare for the Air Force ASVAB Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with explanations to master each section. Get exam-ready now!

The correct answer is that resistance opposes the flow of electricity, which is commonly understood as the flow of current in an electrical circuit. When an electrical current moves through a conductor, resistance acts as a hindrance, making it more difficult for the charges to move. This phenomenon can be thought of in terms of a water flow analogy: where a pipe constricts, it restricts the flow of water, similar to how resistance diminishes the flow of electric charge.

In practical terms, higher resistance in a circuit results in less current flowing for a given voltage, as described by Ohm's Law, which states that current (I) is equal to voltage (V) divided by resistance (R). Therefore, when considering how resistance interacts with an electrical circuit, it is primarily about how much current can successfully travel through the circuit rather than opposing voltage or power directly.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy