When resistors are connected in parallel, the reciprocal of the equivalent resistance (Req) is equal to the sum of the reciprocals of the individual resistances. Given resistances are R₁ = 2 ohm, R₂ = 4 ohm, and R₃ = 8 ohm. The formula for equivalent resistance in parallel is: 1/Req = 1/ R₁ + 1/R₂ + 1/R₃ Substituting the values: 1/Req = 1/2 + 1/4 + 1/8 To add these fractions, find a common denominator, which is 8: 1/Req = 4/8 + 2/8 + 1/8 1/Req = (4 + 2 + 1) / 8 1/Req = 7/8 Now, take the reciprocal to find Req: Req = 8/7 ohm To compare this value with the options, calculate the decimal value: Req ≈ 1.14 ohm. A key principle of parallel resistance is that the equivalent resistance is always less than the smallest individual resistance in the combination. In this case, the smallest resistance is 2 ohm, and 8/7 ohm (approx 1.14 ohm) is indeed less than 2 ohm.