According to the question,
If the R is parallel
1 / R = 1 / 12 + 1 / 6 + 1 / 4
1 / R = (1 + 2 + 3) / 12
1 / R = 6 / 12
R = 12 / 6
R = 2 ohm
Now, if the resistances are in series
R = 2 + 2 + 5
R = 9 ohm
According to the question,
If the R is parallel
1 / R = 1 / 12 + 1 / 6 + 1 / 4
1 / R = (1 + 2 + 3) / 12
1 / R = 6 / 12
R = 12 / 6
R = 2 ohm
Now, if the resistances are in series
R = 2 + 2 + 5
R = 9 ohm