Theory/Concept
- Resistance of a wire is directly proportional to its length: \[ R \propto L \]
- When a wire is cut into equal parts, resistance reduces in the same ratio.
- For resistors in parallel: \[ \frac{1}{R'} = \frac{1}{R_1} + \frac{1}{R_2} + \dots \]
- If \( n \) identical resistors each of resistance \( r \) are connected in parallel: \[ R' = \frac{r}{n} \]
Solution Roadmap
- Find resistance of each piece after cutting.
- Apply parallel combination formula.
- Calculate equivalent resistance.
- Compute ratio \( \frac{R}{R'} \).
Step-by-Step Solution
Step 1: Original resistance
\[ R \]
Step 2: After cutting into 5 equal parts
\[ R_n = \frac{R}{5} \]
Step 3: Apply parallel formula
\[ \frac{1}{R'} = \frac{1}{R_n} + \frac{1}{R_n} + \frac{1}{R_n} + \frac{1}{R_n} + \frac{1}{R_n} \]
\[ \frac{1}{R'} = 5 \times \frac{1}{R_n} \]
Step 4: Substitute \( R_n \)
\[ \frac{1}{R'} = 5 \times \frac{1}{\frac{R}{5}} \]
\[ \frac{1}{R'} = 5 \times \frac{5}{R} \]
\[ \frac{1}{R'} = \frac{25}{R} \]
Step 5: Take reciprocal
\[ R' = \frac{R}{25} \]
Step 6: Required ratio
\[ \frac{R}{R'} = \frac{R}{\frac{R}{25}} = 25 \]
Final Answer: (d) 25
Concept Visualization
Exam Significance
- Tests understanding of proportionality \( R \propto L \).
- Very common in CBSE board MCQs and case-based questions.
- Frequently asked in NTSE and Olympiads.
- Key shortcut: \[ R' = \frac{R}{n^2} \] when a wire is cut into \( n \) equal parts and connected in parallel.