Updated: Dec 9, 2025 | Source: 2022-2026 Question Pool | Topic: T5D
T5D03T5D

What formula is used to calculate resistance in a circuit?

Deep Dive: T5D03

The correct answer is B: R = E / I. The formula used to calculate resistance in a circuit is R = E / I, which is Ohm's Law rearranged. Resistance equals voltage divided by current. This is the same fundamental relationship as E = I × R, just rearranged to solve for resistance. When you know the voltage across a component and the current through it, you can calculate its resistance. This formula is essential for determining component values, troubleshooting circuits, and understanding how resistance affects circuit behavior. The formula R = E / I shows that resistance increases when voltage increases (for constant current) or when current decreases (for constant voltage).

Why Other Answers Are Wrong

Option A: Incorrect. R = E × I would multiply voltage and current, which gives power (P = E × I), not resistance. Resistance has units of ohms, not watts. Option C: Incorrect. R = E + I would add voltage and current, which have different units and cannot be directly added. Option D: Incorrect. R = E - I would subtract current from voltage, which is mathematically invalid due to different units.

Exam Tip

Resistance formula = R = E / I. Remember: Resistance equals Voltage divided by Current. This is Ohm's Law rearranged to solve for resistance.

Memory Aid

**R** = **E** / **I** (think 'REI' - **R**esistance **E**quals **I**nverse of current, or **R** = **E** divided by **I**)

Real-World Example

You're testing an antenna tuner. You measure 50 volts across a component and 1 ampere of current through it. Using R = E / I, you calculate the resistance: R = 50 / 1 = 50 ohms. This confirms the component value and helps you verify proper operation.

Source & Coverage

Question Pool: 2022-2026 Question Pool

Subelement: T5D

Reference: 2022-2026 Question Pool · T5 - Electrical principles

Key Concepts

Ohm's Law Resistance calculation R = E / I Circuit analysis

Verified Content

Question from the official FCC Technician Class pool. Explanation reviewed by licensed amateur radio operators and mapped to the T5D topic.