Recovered data for solvability — a series network has three resistors R1, R2, and R3 with total equivalent resistance R_total = 600 kΩ. If R1 = 100 kΩ and R3 = 300 kΩ, what is the value of R2?

Introduction / Context:
When analyzing series circuits, the equivalent resistance is simply the sum of individual resistances. If the total is known along with all but one element, you can directly compute the missing value. This mirrors many troubleshooting scenarios where you measure total and some components but one reading is unavailable.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Series network: R_total = R1 + R2 + R3.
• R_total = 600 kΩ, R1 = 100 kΩ, R3 = 300 kΩ.
• Ideal resistors; temperature effects ignored.

Concept / Approach:
Use the series-sum formula and solve for the unknown. This is an algebraic rearrangement requiring no advanced methods. Ensuring units are consistent (all in kΩ) simplifies the arithmetic and avoids conversion errors.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Back-substitute: 100 + 200 + 300 = 600 kΩ, which matches the specified total, confirming the calculation.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Common Pitfalls:
Mishandling units (Ω vs kΩ); forgetting that only series, not parallel, uses direct addition; accidentally subtracting the wrong way around.

Final Answer:
200 kΩ