Power Dissipation: Calculate Total Power

In summary, the conversation discusses finding voltage using supersposition and calculating the total power dissipated in two circuits with multiple resistors and batteries. The power is supplied by the batteries and dissipated by the resistive elements, and can be determined by finding either the current through or voltage across each resistor.
  • #1
suspenc3
402
0
I was asked to first find a few things using supersposition (A few voltages). Now it says to find the TOTAL power dissipated and there are two answers. Do I just find out all the currents(to find out all the voltages across each resitor)etc...and then sum up all the [tex]\frac{v^2}{R}[/tex]'s for both of the circuits(There are two circuits..two baterries which were each shorted)?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Power will be supplied by the batteries and dissipated by the resistive elements. To find out the power dissipated by each resistive element, you can find either the current through it, or the voltage across it.
 
  • #3


Yes, in order to calculate the total power dissipated, you will need to find the currents in each circuit and then use the formula P = (I^2)R to calculate the power dissipated in each resistor. Once you have calculated the power dissipated in each resistor, you can then add them together to get the total power dissipated in the circuit. Keep in mind that you will need to take into account the direction of current flow and the polarity of the batteries when calculating the individual powers.
 

1. What is power dissipation?

Power dissipation refers to the amount of power that is lost or converted into heat when an electronic component or circuit is in operation. This is typically measured in watts (W).

2. Why is it important to calculate total power dissipation?

Calculating total power dissipation is important for several reasons. First, it can help engineers and designers determine the efficiency of a circuit or component. It also allows for proper heat management and prevents overheating, which can lead to damage or failure of the device.

3. How is total power dissipation calculated?

Total power dissipation is calculated by multiplying the voltage and current of a circuit or component. The formula for power dissipation is P = V * I, where P is power in watts, V is voltage in volts, and I is current in amps.

4. What factors can affect power dissipation?

There are several factors that can affect power dissipation, including the voltage and current levels, the resistance of the circuit or component, and the ambient temperature. In general, higher voltage and current levels, higher resistance, and higher ambient temperatures can lead to higher power dissipation.

5. How can power dissipation be reduced?

There are several ways to reduce power dissipation, including using more efficient components, optimizing the circuit design, and implementing proper heat management techniques such as using heat sinks and fans. It is also important to carefully select the appropriate voltage and current levels for the circuit to minimize power dissipation.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
754
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
22
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
296
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
13
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
4K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
Back
Top