Ayren purchased a 1000W (120V) hair dryer in the USA,

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the use of a 1000W hair dryer designed for 120V in a 220V European outlet. Participants explore the implications of voltage differences on current draw and safety.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants examine the relationship between power, voltage, and current using the formula P=IV. They also consider the resistance of the hair dryer and how it affects current draw at different voltages.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided calculations regarding current draw at both 120V and 220V, leading to a conclusion about the potential safety issue with the higher current in Europe. There is a recognition of the need to verify assumptions about the hair dryer's compatibility with the voltage change.

Contextual Notes

Participants are discussing the implications of using a device rated for a different voltage and the associated risks, particularly concerning outlet ratings and current draw limits.

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Ayren purchased a 1000W (120V) hair dryer in the USA, and she took it to Europe where the standard voltage is 220V. Assuming that the hair dryer can operate safely at the higher voltage, can you actually use it if the outlet is rated for 15A, or will it draw too much current (How much current)?

I went about trying to solve this with P=IV , power=current x Voltage

1000W= I (220V)

I = 1000W/220V = 4.545 Amps,

this is less than the 15A that the outlet is rated for so it should be able to, but i guess i missed something since this is incorrect. Please help.
 
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The power drawn isn't the same in Europe as in the USA.

Find the resistance of the dryer.
 
Ok i see.

1000W= I x 120V

I= 1000/120 = 8 1/3 amps

V=IR R= V/I R= 120V/8.333Amps R=14.4 ohms

then in Europe

220V= I (14.4ohms)

I= 220V/14.4ohms I=15.2778amps

this is greater than the 15 amps the outlet is rated for so it would not work.
 
Yup. Looks right.
 

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