Two nonideal batteries are connected in series. Evaluate the following statements: (A) The equivalent emf is greater than either of the two emfs. (B) The equivalent internal resistance is less than either of the two internal resistances.

Step-by-step solution

When two nonideal batteries of emfs E₁ and E₂ and internal resistances r₁ and r₂ are connected in series, the equivalent internal resistance is given by r_ eq = r₁ + r₂ . Since r₁ > 0 and r₂ > 0 , the equivalent internal resistance r_ eq is strictly greater than both r₁ and r₂ . Therefore, statement B is incorrect. The equivalent emf of the series combination depends on the polarity of the connection. If the batteries are connected such that they aid each other, E_ eq = E₁ + E₂ . However, if they are connected with