A simple diagram of two heat resistors.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the values of two heat resistors, R1 and R2, based on provided diagrams and given parameters such as power, voltage, and time. Participants explore the relationships between these variables and the equations governing resistors in parallel and series configurations.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about how to set up the equations to find R1 and R2 based on the diagrams provided.
  • Another participant suggests calculating power using the formula P = W / t and proposes that the power for the parallel resistors is 1.76 kW.
  • A participant calculates the total resistance for the parallel resistors as R = V^2 / P, resulting in 27500 kOhm, and questions if each resistor can be assumed to be half of that value.
  • One participant corrects the power value to 396 kJ for the diagram and emphasizes the need for clarity in the formulas used.
  • A later reply indicates that the total resistance for the series diagram is 146.67 Ohm and suggests a method to find each resistor's value using the relationship (R1 * R2)/(R1 + R2) = Rtotal.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying levels of understanding and approaches to the problem, with no consensus reached on the correct method or values for R1 and R2. Disagreements arise regarding the calculations and interpretations of the diagrams.

Contextual Notes

Participants note potential confusion regarding the use of symbols and terminology, such as using W for energy instead of power, and the need for additional equations to solve for R1 and R2 accurately.

KayVee
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Here is a problem I have. I need to find the resistors R1 and R2, and here is what I know:

http://triton.imageshack.us/Himg12/scaled.php?server=12&filename=varmalikam.jpg&xsize=640&ysize=480

How do I set up the equation? I am really lost.

Please ask, if you are having troubles reading the diagram. The first one is the original one.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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Welcome to PF!

Hi KayVee! Welcome to PF! :smile:

Ignore the first diagram.

In the second diagram, you're given the heat and the time and the voltage …

so what is the power?

and so what can you say about R1 and R2?
 
I see that I need to put up my own work/study on the circuit, but now I see that I was going no where :P

So, the power for the parallel is: [tex]P = W / t = 2112kJ / 1200s = 1,76 kW.[/tex]

Then the (sum of the?) parallel resistors: [tex]R = V~2 / P = 220~2 / 1,75 kW = 27500 kOhm.[/tex]

Can I then say that each resistor is 27500 / 2 ?

This pice is kinda hard, since we have had so little about power in school.
 
Hi KayVee! :smile:

(why did you use W for energy … that's really confusing :frown:)

(and the LaTeX for squared is ^2 not ~2 … though it's quicker to write, and easier to read, and easier on the PF server, if you just use the X2 tag above the Reply box :wink:)
KayVee said:
So, the power for the parallel is: [tex]P = W / t = 2112kJ / 1200s = 1,76 kW.[/tex]

yes, except I think it's 396 kJ for that diagram
Then the (sum of the?) parallel resistors: [tex]R = V~2 / P = 220~2 / 1,75 kW = 27500 kOhm.[/tex]

yes (but it would be better if you stated what formula you're using :wink:)
Can I then say that each resistor is 27500 / 2 ?

Noooo :frown:

you need another equation for R1 and R2 … try the other diagram! :smile:
 
Sorry tiny-tim, for the late reply. But I cracked the case :D I found the total ampere for
the second diagram, and then just setting the information I had in: [tex]U=I*R[/tex].

I knew that the total resistance in the serial diagram var 146,67 Ohm. There is even a simpler way to find the res. for each resistor. Find the total resistance for the parallel and and total for the serial, then set it up in the : [tex](R1 * R2)/(R1 + R2)= Rtotal[/tex].
 

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