What is the correct formula to determine total impedance in a parallel circuit with different impedances?

The formula to determine total impedance in a parallel circuit with different impedances is based on the concept that the reciprocal of the total impedance is the sum of the reciprocals of each individual impedance. This is reflected in the correct choice, which states that the inverse of the total impedance equals the sum of the inverses of the individual impedances.

In mathematical terms, if Z1, Z2, and Z3 are the impedances of three components in parallel, then the total impedance (Z_total) can be represented as:

1/Z_total = 1/Z1 + 1/Z2 + 1/Z3.

From this formula, to find the total impedance, you would take the reciprocal of the sum of the reciprocals of the individual impedances. This approach is grounded in the principles of electrical circuits, where the current can take multiple paths, thereby affecting the overall impedance.

The other options present alternative calculations that do not apply to parallel circuits. Adding the individual impedances (the second option) would be suitable for series circuits instead. The third option’s formula resembles the formula for calculating total impedance in a series circuit, while the last option represents a multiplication relationship that is not applicable in parallel configurations. Understanding these distinctions is essential to correctly