Current takes every available path, but more of it flows through the easier one. In parallel resistors, the current splits in inverse proportion to resistance – the dual of the voltage divider.
How to use the Current Divider Calculator
- Branch type
- Total current I
- Branch 1 value (Ω, H or F – same unit for all)
- Branch 2 value
- Branch 3 value
- Branch 4 value
- Branch 5 value
- Branch 6 value
Results update as you type, every field has its own unit menu, and everything is calculated in your browser.
How it works
Choose the branch type, enter the total current and the branch values (0 = unused).
Inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Branch type | Choose one: Resistors, Inductors, Capacitors |
| Total current I | Units: A, mA, µA, kA |
| Branch 1 value (Ω, H or F – same unit for all) | A number |
| Branch 2 value | A number |
| Branch 3 value | A number |
| Branch 4 value | A number |
| Branch 5 value | A number |
| Branch 6 value | A number |
Example values
How the main result changes when Total current I changes and everything else stays at the example values above:
| Total current I (A) | Current in branch 1 (A) |
|---|---|
| 0.5 | 0.2999 |
| 0.75 | 0.4498 |
| 1 | 0.5998 |
| 1.25 | 0.7497 |
| 1.5 | 0.8997 |
| 2 | 1.1995 |
Formula
Resistors/inductors: I_k = I·(1/Z_k) / Σ(1/Z_i) · Capacitors: I_k = I·C_k / ΣC_i
Worked example
Inputs — Branch type: Resistors; Total current I: 1 A; Branch 1 value (Ω, H or F – same unit for all): 100; Branch 2 value: 220; Branch 3 value: 470; Branch 4 value: 0; Branch 5 value: 0; Branch 6 value: 0.
Results — Current in branch 1 = 0.59977 A; Current in branch 2 = 0.27262 A; Current in branch 3 = 0.12761 A; Current in branch 4 = 0 A; Current in branch 5 = 0 A; Current in branch 6 = 0 A.
Key terms
- Current divider
- Parallel circuit that splits current.
Frequently asked questions
Which branch gets the most current?
The one with the lowest resistance (or largest capacitance).
Does the total current change?
The sum of branch currents equals the total.
Why do capacitors divide the other way?
Their reactance falls as capacitance rises.
Is frequency needed for inductors?
No – the ratio is the same at any frequency for ideal parts.