In the
above problem R1 has a resistance of 50 ohms and R2 has a resistance of
100 ohms. Knowing that solve the circuit for all parts assuming that
120 V is the power supply. Use the Ohm's Law and rules of a series
circuit to help! |
The Rules of a Series Circuit
1) Voltage drops around the circuit are divided in proportion
to the ohmic value of each component.
2) Resistances add directly. (i.e. R1 + R2)
3) All current flows through all parts. Therefore the amperage
on any part of the circuit is the same as the total amperage.
| Resistance/R |
Voltage/E |
Amperage/I |
Power/P |
| RT = 150 ohms |
ET = 120 V |
IT = .8 A |
PT = 96 W |
| R1 = 50 ohms |
ER1 = 40 V |
IR1 = .8 A |
PR1 = 32 W |
| R2 = 100 ohms |
ER2 = 80 V |
IR2 = .8 A |
PR2 = 64 W |
Step By Step Guide
1. The first step is to add the resistance of the resistors to get the
total resistance. 100ohms + 50ohms = 150 ohms
2. From that answer you can solve for the total current using Ohm's
Law.
120V / 150ohms = .8 A
3. Next you plug everything into the Power formula to solve for the
total wattage.
.8A * 120V = 96 W
4. Go through steps 2 and 3 solving for the individual resistors. |