How Much Current Flows Through a 300-W Computer Using 120 V?

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SUMMARY

A computer with a 300-W power supply operating at a household voltage of 120 V will have a current flow of 2.5 A. This conclusion is derived from the formula for electric power, P = IV, where I represents current, P represents power, and V represents voltage. By rearranging the equation to I = P/V, substituting the values yields I = 300 W / 120 V = 2.5 A. This calculation confirms that 2.5 amps of current will flow through the computer.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic electrical formulas, specifically P = IV.
  • Familiarity with the concepts of power, voltage, and current.
  • Knowledge of units of measurement in electricity (Watts, Volts, Amperes).
  • Basic algebra skills for rearranging equations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between power, voltage, and current in AC circuits.
  • Learn about electrical safety and the implications of current flow in devices.
  • Explore the differences between AC and DC current in practical applications.
  • Investigate the efficiency of power supplies and their impact on current draw.
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Electrical engineering students, technicians working with computer hardware, and anyone interested in understanding electrical power consumption in devices.

mark9159
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Hey,

I have a question to ask and was wondering if you guys could help me.

5.) A computer has a 300-W power supply. If household voltage is 120 V, how much current will flow through the computer?
A. 0.4 A
B. 2.5 A
C. 180 A
D. 420 A
E. 36,000 A

I picked B. I used the equation Electric power= current x voltage and changed it so current=power/voltage...which is how i got 2.5 A.

thanks,

mark
 
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Yup, P = IV, so I = P/V = 300/120 = 2.5
 


Hi Mark,

You are correct! Using the equation P=IV, we can rearrange it to solve for current, which gives us I=P/V. Plugging in the values given, we get I=300W/120V=2.5A. This means that 2.5 amps of current will flow through the computer. Good job on using the correct equation and solving for the correct answer! Let us know if you have any other questions.
 

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