The current divider formula can be used to calculate current flow through any branch of a circuit.

• A. Only for three resistors
• B. Only for series circuits
• C. True
• D. Only for two branches

Answer: (C)

In a parallel network, the same voltage appears across every branch, so currents split according to each branch’s ability to conduct. The current divider formula tells us that the current through a particular branch is a fraction of the total current, proportional to that branch’s conductance (1/R) relative to the sum of all conductances. In formula form, Ii = It × (Gi / ΣGj), whereGi = 1/Ri. This works for any number of parallel branches, not just two or three. It’s easy to see in the two-branch case: I1 = It × (R2/(R1+R2)) and I2 = It × (R1/(R1+R2)). So the statement is correct because the current divider principle applies to currents in any branch of a parallel network.